The dominoes are falling into place at Parramatta.
Brad Arthur's future has been a hot topic in the league, but the Eels announced on Tuesday they have extended their coach's tenure for a further two seasons.
The contract extension keeps Arthur at Parramatta until the end of the 2021 season.
The future of the coach, as well as those of several off-contract stars - including skipper Clint Gutherson and halfback Mitchell Moses - have been played out in the media for weeks, almost to a comical level.
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On Tuesday, the Eels finally confirmed they have locked in Arthur, who has been at the helm since 2014.
Pressure was on following last season's last-placed finish, with the Eels winning just six games.
However, they have made a big turnaround to sit in the top eight after nine rounds in 2019 with a 5-4 record.
Still, there remain big inconsistencies with the team - in round six, the Eels flexed their finals muscle with a 51-6 demolition of Wests Tigers, but were last week trounced by Melbourne 64-10.
Regardless, Parramatta CEO Bernie Gurr said Arthur's extension - confirmed after three weeks of discussions with his management - was important for the club moving forward.
"When we undertook our football review last year it was clear that a long term strategy for our football department was needed to ensure our players and coaches have the best possible opportunity for success," Gurr said.
"It is the view of the board and CEO that Brad is the best choice to lead our club’s football program into the future.
"We are focused on continuing to be a development club and we strongly believe in what Brad is building and his ability to lead our NRL team in the right direction."
Arthur said he was happy to have the club's backing.
"I feel very fortunate to be able to continue coaching at this great club," the coach said.
"We have a proud and passionate supporter base and I want us to give them the results they deserve.
"Everyone involved in our football program realises the responsibility we have in bringing sustained success to our members and fans and that remains our priority."
✒️ The Eels are pleased to announce the extension of the contract of Head Coach Brad Arthur for two years, taking him through until the end of the 2021 season!
— Parramatta Eels (@TheParraEels) May 14, 2019
Details: https://t.co/jr8tQcMWK9 #PARRAdise pic.twitter.com/qs93UuRCN1
