EXCLUSIVE: Phil Gould Dismisses Speculation About Craig Fitzgibbon’s Job Security at Cronulla

Phil Gould has dismissed claims that Craig Fitzgibbon is facing pressure as the head coach of Cronulla, insisting that the club remains a strong contender for the premiership this season.

Fitzgibbon is entering his fourth year with the Sharks, and under his leadership, the team has consistently reached the finals.

In the previous year, Cronulla broke a longstanding barrier by winning a play-off match before being eliminated by the eventual champions, Penrith, in the preliminary finals.

The Sharks have had a sluggish start to their 2025 season, narrowly losing to the Panthers in their opening match, followed by defeats against the Bulldogs and Raiders.

When asked about the notion of Fitzgibbon being under scrutiny due to the team’s stagnation in recent seasons, Gould swiftly dispelled those concerns.

“Not at all – I don’t agree,” he stated on Wide World of Sports’ Six Tackles With Gus.

“I believe the Sharks are a solid squad and they’ve developed nicely into a competitive club. Maintaining a place near the top of the table is no easy feat.

Catch the 2025 NRL premiership live and free on Nine and 9Now.

“I still see room for improvement in their play, but the Sharks are certainly viable contenders in this competition if they stay fit and find their rhythm towards the end of the season.

“I think Craig Fitzgibbon is an excellent coach. He has made significant contributions to the club.”  

One of Fitzgibbon’s main challenges will be reinvigorating marquee player Nicho Hynes, who has had an underwhelming first five matches of the season.

Gould acknowledged that Hynes isn’t the only player needing to elevate their performance, comparing the need to improve to the secret recipe of a popular fast-food chain.

“They need a few players to step up – but it’s like the 11 herbs and spices of Kentucky Fried Chicken,” he remarked.

Cronulla is set to face Manly on Saturday afternoon at Perth’s Optus Stadium.