Jason Demetriou throws his hat in the ring to coach Parramatta - just weeks after he was sacked by South Sydney

Jason Demetriou has confirmed is one of five candidates who Parramatta have interviewed for the head coaching role ahead of the 2025 NRL season.

It comes just 44 days after 'JD' was sacked by South Sydney.

Demetriou took part in the first round of interviews at the Eels and stated he is a 'career coach' who has 'woken from my slumber'.

Interim coach Trent Barrett, Josh Hannay, Jason Ryles and former Wallabies coach Michael Cheika are also in the mix to replace Brad Arthur.

NSW coach Michael Maguire was also a contender - but withdrew from the race to focus on the State of Origin series after the Blues lost Game 1 to Queensland on home soil at Accor Stadium earlier this month.

Demetriou guided the Rabbitohs to the 2022 NRL preliminary final in his rookie season and had the club on top of the ladder after 11 rounds last year.

But South Sydney then lost their momentum in dramatic fashion, missing the top eight.

And following a poor start this campaign, Demetriou was moved on by CEO Blake Solly in late April.

Demetriou told Triple M he has spoken with the Eels and wants another opportunity at NRL level as a head coach.

'It sort of woke me up from my slumber a bit, got me excited, got the adrenaline going again,' he said.

'I am a strong believer that I am a career coach and I will get an opportunity again.

'This experience [South Sydney] has taught me some lessons that really prepped me for that next opportunity that comes.

'You go into head coaching thinking you know that you are ready. Sometimes it takes a bit of a smack in the face to realise this is what it is all about.

'For me it was about getting out there again, getting the blood going, getting the excitement to put my hat back in the ring. I am ready for the next challenge in my career.'

Demetriou pointed to Parramatta's playing depth as what excites him the most. 

'I think Brad Arthur left that roster in decent shape. It is a strong, vibrant club that is running well,' he said.

'Two years ago they were beaten in a grand final. 'There is a really strong roster there, an outstanding spine, some really big forwards as well.

'So it's a team I would love to coach if given the opportunity....but there are some really great candidates out there who are putting their hand up.

'There is a reason why everyone is putting their hand up. It is an exciting job. 

'It would be great to be part of a journey that reignites Parramatta.'