England are looking to appoint a full-time head coach early next year to replace Tony Smith. Smith, who combined coaching roles with England and Warrington and resigned after the 46-16 loss to Australia. The 42-year-old Australian, whose contract expired at the end of the month, said he quit for family reasons.
A four-man panel, chaired by Rugby Football League chief executive Nigel Wood helped by Smith, has been set up and we expect them to make an appointment ahead of England’s mid-season international against France.
The new coach will be expected to take charge of the national team and oversee England under-20s plus working with the elite squad to develop a four-year plan to produce 30 world-class players for the World Cup in 2013.
Smith, who took over from Brian Noble in March 2007, has said he will continue to support the England side and the Rugby Football League in their quest to find his successor.
Smith said: (quote) I have got a great relationship with the League and they have said they would like me involved in the recruitment. I am sure there are plenty of options but we have got to see who is available and see who is prepared to do the job – and whether the RFL are looking for a full-time or a part-time head coach. (end quote)