Panthers GM Phil Gould has blasted the media for sparking rumours that Penrith coach Ivan Cleary is set to take up the role at Manly-Warringah and replace under pressure Geoff Toovey.

“There is no validity whatsoever to recent speculation in media circles that Panthers coach Ivan Cleary is considering an offer to coach Manly,” Gould said in The Sydney Morning Herald.

“I can only assume that when journalists get bored they make up these scenarios so they can at least get a story when the rumour is denied.

“It really is frustrating. First, I am assured that Manly has not made an offer to Ivan. Second, Ivan is very happy at Panthers.”