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Michael Cheika has emerged as a surprise candidate for the Dragons job, with backing for his experience and leadership credentials.
Michael Cheika has reportedly expressed interest in the vacant head coaching role at the St George Illawarra Dragons, emerging as a late contender following the club's recent coaching change.
The Dragons have installed Dean Young as interim coach for the remainder of the season after parting ways with Shane Flanagan earlier this week.
Young is considered a leading candidate for the full-time role, alongside former premiership-winning teammate Ben Hornby, who is currently an assistant to Wayne Bennett at South Sydney.
Cheika's name has surfaced ahead of the traditional Anzac Day clash between the Dragons and the Sydney Roosters, where he is currently an assistant under Trent Robinson.
The 59-year-old brings an extensive coaching resume across rugby union and league, including a six-year stint with the Wallabies, which he led to the 2015 Rugby World Cup final.
His achievements include guiding Leinster to their first Heineken Cup title in 2009 and steering the NSW Waratahs to a maiden Super Rugby crown in 2014.
He also oversaw a Rugby Championship win with Australia in 2015 and was named World Rugby Coach of the Year.
Since switching codes, Cheika has coached Lebanon at the Rugby League World Cup and remains contracted to lead them again this year.
He is off-contract with the Roosters at the end of the current NRL season.
Former Newcastle premiership winner Matty Johns said Cheika's experience in high-pressure environments could help stabilise the Dragons, noting his ability to unite a club.
He referenced Bennett as the last coach to command similar alignment within the organisation.
Roosters playmaker Luke Keary, who has worked with Cheika, said the coach's understanding of rugby league has improved significantly since his early involvement with the club.
He added that Cheika's presence and authority make him a credible head coaching option.