Johns Backs Cleary For Warriors Job

Australian league commentator Matthew Johns is convinced Ivan Cleary will be coaching the Warriors next season.

Johns, who first sparked talk in August that the former Warriors coach was in line to make a return to his old club and replace current coach Andrew McFadden, claims Cleary's return to Auckland for 2016 is a done deal following his sensational sacking by Penrith on Monday.

Warriors managing director Jim Doyle has repeatedly denied the club has made any approach to Cleary and insists McFadden will be in charge next season, but Johns is adamant he has heard otherwise.

"For mine it's very strange. I got told at the back-end of last season that Ivan was going to be at the Warriors next year," Johns told Sydney's Triple M radio.

"I wouldn't be surprised if he starts round one at the Warriors. I really wouldn't be."

The former Newcastle Knights premiership winner says if his information is wrong and Cleary isn't at the helm by round one of next season, his appointment will only be a matter of time should the Warriors get off to a slow start.

"If Andrew McFadden doesn't get off to a good start, I've got no doubt Ivan will be back in charge," he said.

Radio Sport