Adam O’Neil Reinstated as Knights Coach but Issues Bold Pay Demand
Newcastle Knights have moved to reinstate Adam O’Neil as their head coach after weeks of uncertainty surrounding the club’s leadership. However, O’Neil has stunned the board with a firm ultimatum — he will only return to the job if his salary is doubled.
The 44-year-old coach, who was relieved of his duties earlier this season following a string of poor performances, has been in talks with club officials amid growing pressure from fans and senior players calling for his return. Sources close to the negotiations revealed that the Knights’ management, facing dwindling morale and mounting criticism, made a formal approach to reappoint him.
While O’Neil is said to be open to resuming his role, he has reportedly demanded a dramatic pay increase, citing the “immense pressure, lack of support, and the need for fair recognition” of his contributions. He has made it clear that without a substantial financial uplift, he will not consider returning to the sidelines.
The move has sparked mixed reactions. Some supporters argue that O’Neil’s leadership is crucial to stabilising the team, particularly after their recent struggles that have left them languishing near the bottom of the NRL ladder. Others, however, view his demands as excessive, questioning whether the Knights should invest heavily in a coach whose record this season has been inconsistent.
Club executives are now under intense scrutiny, balancing the risk of losing a coach who has the backing of several senior players against the financial strain of meeting O’Neil’s demands. A decision is expected in the coming days as the Knights scramble to prepare for the final rounds of the season.
For now, O’Neil’s stance has left Newcastle in a precarious position: the coach they want is ready to return, but only if they are willing to break the bank to bring him back.
