“SUBSTANTIAL amounts of money” have been wagered on Michael Maguire and Geoff Toovey in the betting market for Wolves’ next head coach.

Birchwood-based bookmakers Betfred, Super League’s title sponsors, have placed the Australian duo as 3/1 joint-favourites to replace the outgoing Tony Smith at The Halliwell Jones Stadium.

Maguire has long been linked with the post, but Toovey’s name being high in the betting may come as a surprise given his relative struggles at Championship side Bradford Bulls this season.

Plenty of current NRL assistant coaches feature prominently, with Canberra Raiders’ Dean Pay and Brisbane Broncos’ Jason Demetriou rated at 5/1.

Melbourne Storm assistant Adam O’Brien and Penrith Panthers reserve grade coach Garth Brennan are both 8/1.

“This is one of the most high-profile jobs in Super League,” Betfred spokesman Pete Spencer said.

“Tony Smith did a superb job transforming the club, He brought in many superstars, which was bold, but the fact is that, in all top-level sport, it is results that matter.

“We know that many Australians are on what is probably now a shortlist and there has been substantial amounts of money placed on both Michael Maguire and Geoff Toovey.

“Daryl Powell has been extraordinary with his coaching this year and he is probably the coach Warrington would want most if they attempt to woo someone who has shone this season.

“It is, however, highly likely that the club will go Down Under once again.”

Next Warrington Wolves head coach odds (courtesy of Betfred):

3/1 – Michael Maguire, Geoff Toovey.

5/1 – Dean Pay, Jason Demetriou.

8/1 – Adam O’Brien, Garth Brennan.

10/1 – Richard Agar.

12/1 – Justin Morgan.

16/1 – Daryl Powell, Laurie Daley.

25/1 – Michael Monaghan, Lee Briers.