In light of the his team's results, the suggestion is the coach may need a mentor to guide him through this tricky period. It's a great idea which I assume has been discussed with Andrew McFadden and one he would welcome. The drums have beaten claiming the coach is safe and with further help to support his confidence, he can continue the work he has started without fear.
Returning to the question of captaincy, I cannot conceive a need to remove Simon Mannering from the post despite his humility in saying he will accept what is best for the team.
Some statements have been made that Ryan Hoffman is the man for the job. Hoffman is a great purchase and is a leader; his credentials would see him a more than able replacement. But his services are not required and I think he would be embarrassed to receive it from Mannering.
Fans have also claimed Mannering is not a screamer and shouter demanding more from his players, but the days of that type of captaincy are gone.
The screamer and shouter is the playmaker directing traffic and plays, not the captain.
The captain leads by example, has respect of his charges and opponents. He's the man who cleans up in defence and makes the meterage that doesn't require brawn in attack.
You'll never see the screamer/shouter as you did with captains Andrew Johns, Brad Fittler and Wally Lewis, but remember they were the playmakers who commanded the ball and action.
Some fans don't respect what they have in Mannering. He is the man to lead with Hoffman, Lillyman and others in support.
