Fittler is the front-runner for the Blues job after Laurie Daley’s sacking and will be granted time away from his on-air duties should he be installed as mentor for the 2018 series.

Fittler has a long association with the network and has extended his deal beyond this season.

“Nine’s new contract with Freddy will enable him to take up the NSWRL head coach position, should that eventuate,” a Nine Network statement read.

NSW Rugby League chief executive David Trodden recently stated Fittler was an “obvious candidate” for the job.

He has previously coached the Roosters and City after a stellar playing career which included premierships with Penrith and the Bondi club.

Fittler said he was ecstatic to have extended his association with the free-to-air broadcaster.

“There’s no better place to work than with the legends of the game on Nine. I’ve never loved working so much. I don’t know if you can call it work. I’ve got the best seat in the house — every week,” he said