Manly coach Geoff Toovey has been sacked, with the club confirming he will stay in his post until the end of the season with Trent Barrett to take over in 2016.

The announcement on Tuesday ends weeks of speculation about Toovey’s position at Brookvale, with reports in the last week indicating the 46-year-old’s axing was imminent.

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“Geoff has been an influential figure within the Sea Eagles organisation for almost three decades,” CEO Joe Kelly said in a statement.

“His contribution on and off the field is unprecedented, and he will always be one of the clubs favourite sons.

“Geoff and the club remain firmly committed to finishing this season off on the highest possible note.”