New South Sydney coach Michael Maguire claims he will be his own man and stand up to high profile owner Russell Crowe as he sets about ending the club's 41-year premiership drought.
The former Wigan boss and ex-Melbourne Storm assistant is the latest coach to sit in the NRL's hottest seat, charged with lifting the proud but under-achieving Rabbitohs following four decades of failure.
Maguire is confident of turning Souths' fortunes around and insists he will enjoy total autonomy despite Crowe's omnipresence and influence.
"We've both spoken about it and we understand the roles we both want to play and I'm sure we'll continually talk about those things," Maguire said after the Bunnies' first hit-out of the pre-season on Monday.
"He's very, very passionate about it and has his own ideas but he's allowed me to do what I want at the club."
"It's (the threat of interference) is not an issue at all. I should be able to utilise someone like him with the experiences he's had."
"He's got a lot of experience outside (the rugby league) scene and has been able to bring different people to the game itself and Souths."
"I see it as a real bonus."
But Maguire readily accepts the burden and responsibility that goes hand-in-hand with coaching Souths - one of the league's foundation clubs.
"I understand all the pressures that are involved at a big club like Souths," he said.
"I am very fortunate to be coaching a club like this. It's an exciting place to be and we're looking forward to what's ahead of us."
"We just want to work hard and improve on what's here at the moment."
Slammed for talking up their finals chances in previous pre-seasons, Souths players were noticeably low key when asked Maguire's expectations of them.
Skipper Roy Asotasi said: "We're just getting to learn about him and what he expects from us for this off-season."
"And all he wants from us is 100 per cent effort and to constantly improve in the off-season and not worry about what's going to happen at the start of the season."
One of Maguire's first tasks will be to find a new half-back to replace the departed Chris Sandow.
Rookie Adam Reynolds is likely to get first shot at the job.