One of the main targets for the vacant St George Illawarra head coach job Jason Ryles, has rejected his boyhood club in favour of joining the Melbourne Storm.
The former prop who played 156 NRL games with St George Illawarra was strongly linked with a return to his hometown club, after coaching stints with the Storm, the Roosters and international Rugby Union sides.
However, the 44-year-old will be returning to the Victorian capital ahead of the 2024 NRL season.
"It wasn't an easy decision to make but I am very comfortable knowing I am returning to Storm and can't wait to get back the Club," Ryles said.
"This was a decision I made with my family, and I know it will be best for my coaching growth and development."
St George Illawarra sacked coach Anthony Griffin after six straight defeats saw them languishing at the bottom of the ladder.
Earlier this morning, Dragons CEO Ryan Webb confirmed Ryles was among the candidates being interviewed for the head coach position following the sacking of Anthony Griffin.
"There are a number [of coaches] we are talking to but Jason is definitely in the mix. We'll continue multiple talks and he is right in there," Mr Webb said.
Just hours later it emerged that Ryles had walked away from the negotiating table in favour of returning to the club where he finished his playing career.
"Not only will Jason add further depth to our coaching ranks, but he will play an important role working with our pathways, academies, and junior representative programs in the coming years," Melbourne CEO Justin Rodski said.
"He is a popular figure around our club with coaches, players, staff and our supporters and we can't wait to see him back at AAMI Park."
As the club recalibrates its search for a new coach, it also emerged they will also be on the hunt for a new major sponsor with St George Bank confirming it will be ending its partnership with the joint-venture.
The bank have been the major sponsor of the club for more than 40 years.
A spokesperson for the bank said the bank's partnership with the club will end following the 2024 season.
"The partnership has been an important sponsorship for the bank, but the time is right to pursue new opportunities for our communities, business and customer priorities."
"We will continue to support the Dragons through 2024 as they assess their future sponsorship arrangements."
St George Bank's parent company the Westpac Group became one of the main sponsors for the NRL and NRLW ahead of the 2023 season.