Connolly: No quick fix for Reds
New Reds coaching coach consultant John Connolly has said there is no 'quick fix' to the Queensland-based franchise's problems.
The Reds turned to Connolly for help as they remain stuck at the bottom of the Super Rugby standings – with just two wins from 11 matches.
While under-fire coach Richard Graham said Monday he welcomes the appointment of the former Wallaby coach, Connolly, both said it may take time to turn the tide.
"Things don't just turn around overnight, but I think there's a tremendous will here for that to happen – so we're very hopeful that we'll move forward quickly," Connolly told a media briefing in Brisbane.
"There's no promises in this business," Connolly added.
"There's a good feeling in the team," he said, adding that last week's 17-58 loss to the Crusaders was a "kick in the pants".
"You've just got to draw a line under that and move on."
He said while they have faith in the talent currently at their disposal, they will always look to bring through players.
"We are doing that, Sam Cordingley is involved there."
He said they have already had a talk about the holes they have to fill – given that several big-name Reds, like Will Genia and James Horwill, have already committed to overseas switches next year.
"It is a challenge for the Queensland and New South Wales sides, because [most of] the talent comes out of these two states for the other franchises," Connolly said, adding: "We are working hard at it all the time."
Meanwhile Graham said he welcomes the appointment of Connolly as a consultant to rebuild the team's shattered Super Rugby season.
Reports suggested Graham has the remaining five weeks of the regular Super Rugby season to save his career.
Connolly, 63, has been contracted for the remainder of this year and the 2016 season.
"I welcome the help, there's no doubt about it," Graham told reporters in Brisbane.
"We've had some really good discussions on everything – from the way the game's played currently to the way we're playing the game, and it's just about coming up with the best way forward.
"I'm still clear on the direction we want to go, but bringing in someone of John's experience, at times you need to listen."
He said there is "no guarantees" about his position next season.
"My contract ends at the end of the year," Graham said, adding: "As I said, what is important is that we get some success at the back-end of this season."
Graham, who joined Queensland as a player in 1991, spent a number of years playing under Connolly.
"We then linked up again in 2003, with Bath, where John was the head coach and I was the assistant coach – so there is certainly have some familiarity there."
Graham said he believes he still has the backing of the players, but knows there is only one way to keep his job.
"Sport's about winning," Graham said.
"I'm a realist, but at the same time I'm a fighter. We've got five games to go and I'm very keen to see us be as successful as we can."
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