I still think he is class. If he signs for Melbourne I won't be happy, but then hewill be looking for a job. I wouldn't be surprised if he doesn't sign for the new Sydney team and spend the next year getting things ready coaching and playerwise. You know, completely build something out of absolutely nothing. I might be wrong of course. I hope not.
He is in the age group where one usually can have some time off (not working), but spending a full year not working is usually not ideal.
However, it is not impossible that - for argument's sake - the new Sydney franchise may pay him a small retainer not to take on the job with the Bitumens in the coming season, and then come back work with the Sydney team the following season. He could take on a lesser paying job then for a year and avoid coaching away from Sydney altogether.
This is just pure speculation of course.