Sydney Roosters utility Mark Riddell has thrown his weight behind Nathan Brown as the replacement for outgoing Penrith coach Matt Elliott.

Riddell says the Huddersfield mentor has the experience to take the reins at the Panthers who are still on the lookout for a head coach for 2012.

The club has already appointed Phil Gould as a director of coaching.

Riddell knows Brown's coaching style well, having previously played under him at the Dragons and against Huddersfield for Wigan in the UK Super League.

Brown, whose wife recently gave birth to a third child, has been linked with a return to the NRL and has indicated he intends to decide on his future soon.

"Brownie's had a good stint at St George, he's gone over to Huddersfield and he's done a really good job with the club over there," Riddell said.

"I'd have no doubt he'd do a good job over there at Penrith and hopefully he gets that opportunity."

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