Manly players say they expect coach Trent Barrett to stay and believe he’s trying to do the best for them by pushing for improvements at the NRL club.

Barrett addressed the players following a weekend report of a legal letter to the club outlining continued concern over deficiencies in the football department and a separate suggestion was set to leave at the end of the season.

Players said on Tuesday he gave them every indication he was on board at least until his contract expires at the end of 2020.

“He’s here for the next couple of years. Baz is a great coach, the players love him and we’d love to have him around,” said veteran Trent Hodkinson.

“I’m sure it will all work itself out.”

Dylan Walker repeatedly diverted questions about Barrett’s coaching future back to Friday’s clash with Gold Coast when the 12th-placed Sea Eagles will seek a third consecutive win for the first time this season

“I don’t know if that’s (that Barrett has told the club that he wants to leave) truly the case,” Walker said.

“There’s reports about it but, as far as I know, he’s as committed as I’ve ever seen him here.

“He just wants the best resources for us, and that’s just a coach that cares.”

Forward Frank Winterstein said the players had “full faith” that Barrett would stay.

“He’s always looking after the players first,” Winterstein said.

“There’s possibly a few things around here that could be improved, so hopefully we do get it done.”