It is a mark of Leeds Rhinos’ progress that they remain unruffled by the constant speculation surrounding Brad Arthur.
The Australian has been linked with a return home almost every week, but the Rhinos might move up to third place in the Super League this weekend.
Leeds, a club in flux since the golden generation, has rediscovered their mojo under Arthur and is on track to achieve their best finish in eight years.
Despite spearheading a comeback at Headingley, Arthur has so far rejected requests to commit to the Rhinos beyond this season, citing homesickness.
Naturally, when uncertainty persists, the cacophony grows louder.
Arthur announced on Friday that he had interviewed for the Perth Bears post, and rumors claim Steve McNamara has been set up to take his place at Headingley.
Despite all the indicators that they are parting ways, Arthur continues to push the Rhinos ahead without committing to what happens next.
When asked about the new conjecture ahead of Saturday’s trip to Castleford Tigers, Arthur responded, “I’m the coach at the moment.” What is the coaching noise? I’m not up to date on all the media.
“I haven’t decided what I’m doing yet. Unless you intend to replace me.
“Like I’ve stated throughout, I have two boys back home who I desperately want to see at some point, but I haven’t said I won’t be here next year.
“I’m simply concerned about each game as it happens, week by week. There is no pressure on anyone to make a decision.
Leeds go to Wheldon Road for a West Yorkshire clash that will test their title credentials.
Arthur may be new to the rivalry, but he certainly has an idea of what awaits his squad.
“We’ve talked about the short field,” he told me.
“Both teams will play a significant amount of football on good possession, so last-tackle alternatives, both with and without the ball, will be critical.
“The boys have informed me of the atmosphere there and what to expect. This is another task, and they all prepare you for the tail part of the season.”
Castleford may be near the bottom of the league table, but there will be plenty of incentive in front of a partisan home crowd.
The Tigers appreciate the opportunity to bloody their fierce rivals’ noses and would love nothing more than to derail Leeds’ play-off hopes.
Castleford, captained by Rhinos icon Danny McGuire, see the derby as an opportunity to strike a blow against a club that evokes strong emotions.
“It’s a big challenge,” remarked McGuire, whose team just won for the third time this season against Salford Red Devils.
“Leeds is playing nicely. They are fairly consistent and excel at the fundamentals of rough and physical play.
“Everyone is thrilled about this task. Everyone expects Leeds to be a top two, three, or four team, so I don’t believe there is any pressure on us.
“But within our group, we want to play well. There is no love lost between the clubs, which is what keeps the game intriguing.
“First and foremost, it would be great to win, especially against a squad that could finish in the top two or three. It would really give us a boost. I believe we’re in a position to compete and play tough.”
A reunion with McGuire will serve as a timely reminder of the standards Leeds hopes to achieve under Arthur.
The eight-time Grand Final winner was recently inducted into the Rhinos’ Hall of Fame, the highest honor for a club legend.
However, while the 42-year-old is proud of his heritage, there are no split loyalties now that he is wearing new colors.
“It really rubberstamps that your career is over,” he remarked, smiling. “I still see myself making a comeback, but being inducted into the Hall of Fame takes that away.
“It’s a huge honour. It only has a few members, and joining the group was an honor.
“Everyone knows about my connections to the Rhinos, and I never want to change that – but I’m enjoying my job at Cas and being a part of this group and club.”
“I’m thrilled about what we may do in the future. I have this insignia on my chest, and I hope to help bring the Rhinos down.”
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