Stuart confirmed to take over at Eels

Parramatta today confirmed that Ricky Stuart will take over as head coach from next year.

Stuart was rumoured to have agreed terms several days ago but his appointment as Stephen Kearney’s successor was confirmed this morning at a press conference.

A former Canberra player and Roosters coach, NSW Blues boss Stuart had been tipped for a return to the capital but plumped for the struggling Eels instead.

“The opportunity to have an involvement with a club that historically has had a powerful and proud presence in our game greatly appealed to me,” said Stuart.

“Importantly, my appointment also provides ongoing stability for my family, especially as we moved into a new home in Sydney in the past year”.

“It is my goal to deliver to the club, our sponsors and our fans a high level of competiveness and success on the football field. It will be a process that will naturally take time, but let’s not forget that success only comes from hard work and commitment from all those who are involved in the rebuild,” he said.

Stuart has agreed to coach until the end of the 2015 season and will start his post in November.

Until then, interim head coach Brad Arthur will remain in charge.