Brian McDermott is not a man to be messed with as players, bosses and press alike have found to their cost.
At times, it appears the abrasive Leeds coach relishes winding people up.
McDermott memorably hardly spoke a word to reporters at two annual press 'thank-you' dinners. And heaven help a reporter who asks a question he doesn't like.
He also once missed out on the England job, partly because of a disastrously forthright interview in which he swore. But does all this really matter, when it comes down to the job he is paid to do?
And the answer has to be a resounding 'no', because no other Super League coach is enjoying the success he is – even though he admits some of his own players don't like him.
But McDermott does get the best out of them on the field. In his two years at Leeds they have won the Super League twice, the World Club Challenge and got to two Challenge Cup finals.
Tonight, McDermott will be hoping to wave his magic wand again as Leeds play Melbourne Storm in the Carnegie World Club Challenge at Headingley. It's a clash that will whet any appetite, with Aussie greats Billy Slater, Cameron Smith and Cooper Cronk on show, along with Kevin Sinfi eld – offi cially the world's best player.
McDermott may even give the press an easier ride if Leeds win. But don't bet on it.