IN-COMING coach Jon Sharp will start work with Huddersfield Giants on Monday morning
Sharp's St Helens last night bowed out of the Super League Grand Final play-off race with a 40-24 defeat against Wigan in front of 21,790 fans at the JJB Stadium.
This was the final act for Sharp as Saints' assistant coach but he immediately shrugged off the disappointment of defeat by announcing his intention to start his new job at the McAlpine next Monday as successor to Tony Smith.
"Losing last night was obviously disappointing, because there was a Super League Grand Final at stake," said Sharp.
"But on the other hand I'm now all clear to start my work with the Giants, and that's exciting.
"I can't wait to get cracking."
Sharp will miss the traditional St Helens end-of-season party in order to start at the Giants as quickly as possible.
And it is a decision that has surprised no-one at the McAlpine.
"Jon has always expressed his eagerness to start his work here at the earliest opportunity," said Giants spokesman Richard Thewlis.
"But such has been his commitment to the St Helens cause and his professionalism and integrity that he hasn't had the day-to-day input a head coach usually has.
"There are lots of little issues for Jon to finalise on what we hope will lead to a number of major announcements.
"Everyone at the Giants is delighted that Jon is now in place to drive them forward at a much greater rate."
