'It's a little bit uncomfortable': Penrith assistant feeling uneasy about being linked to other clubs

Penrith assistant coach Cameron Ciraldo concedes he feels uncomfortable being the subject of constant scrutiny with three NRL clubs on the hunt for a new head coach.

Ciraldo took charge of the Panthers during their 42-6 over Newcastle on Sunday in a week in which the Warriors and Wests Tigers sacked their coaches.

Canterbury have yet to announce a replacement after they axed Trent Barrett last month.

Ciraldo is the next head coach in waiting, given his record at mastering Penrith’s defence over the past few seasons, which has contributed to their 2020 minor premiership and last year’s grand final win.

The Panthers are attempting to extend his contract but the lure of a top job might prove too much for him.

The 37-year-old played a straight bat to questions about his future as he stepped in for Ivan Cleary, who remained at home due to ongoing issues related to recent knee surgery.

“It’s probably not the forum to talk about what I want to do,” Ciraldo said.

“It’s a credit to our club and players that they don’t let that become a distraction.

“Obviously, it’s a little bit uncomfortable seeing your name in there (newspapers) all the time. But it’s also very flattering.

“My job at the moment is to just keep doing the best I can for Penrith and hopefully keep improving on our defence.”

Ciraldo is the hot favourite for the Tigers job, with the club’s head of football Tim Sheens effectively declaring that they want a “development coach” to take them forward.

So popular is Ciraldo, he telephoned Knights coach Adam O’Brien during the week because of speculation he was interested in taking the Newcastle job.

Ciraldo spent five seasons at the Knights during his playing career.

“We’re good mates and that was a bit of a challenge during the week,” he said.

“I know Adam and he’ll work his way out of it.

“I’m happy doing what I’m doing and have some pretty special relationships at this place.

“But I’ve got to look at what’s in my career and what’s down the track. I’m just focused on Penrith and we’ll get to that (a decision on my future) in due time.”