Reports from various outlets have emerged over the past week first suggesting that Michael Maguire was set to undergo a performance review at the Wests Tigers, and then that he was going to be released by the club at some point in the next week.

However, the Tigers have just put out a statement confirming that Maguire will be their head coach in season 2022 via Chief Executive Officer Justin Pascoe.

“While we always understood this review and process would take time, it was the responsibility of the football committee to ensure all information was considered to make the right decisions for the club moving forward,” Pascoe said.

“Michael has been with the club over arguably its most challenging time with the COVID-19 pandemic, has overseen significant change both on and off the field throughout his tenure and, on behalf of all at Wests Tigers, I’d like to thank him for his effort so far.

“We are firmly committed to building a high-performing club.

OFFICIAL — Following the thorough annual review of club’s football operations, Wests Tigers have confirmed that Michael Maguire will remain in his position as Head Coach.https://t.co/3QToEsFNIt

— Wests Tigers (@WestsTigers) September 21, 2021

“With our strong financial position, increased investment and recent success of our pathways teams, the new Centre of Excellence and continued work on a South West academy, the arrival of Tim Sheens and his experience in NRL systems, this club is poised to reap the rewards of several years of hard work.

“We believe that through Michael’s vast experience and by continuing to challenge the way we operate, we will continue to drive the high standards and behaviours needed to ensure we achieve our goals as a club.”

It is a huge plus that the Tigers have come to this decision now so that they can remove any distractions going forward into next season.

As Pascoe has stated, the club does have a new Centre of Excellence, along with the return of their premiership-winning coach Tim Sheens as their Head of Football Performance, and a couple of new signings in Wigan Warriors duo Jackson Hastings and Oliver Gildart.

Now is the time for Maguire, Sheens and their team to get to work and build towards a great 2022 for the Wests Tigers, that may see them qualify for their first finals series since 2011.