TWO former Giants employees are in the running for the job of England coach.
Among the names already being linked with the position are former Huddersfield coach John Kear and ex-club skipper Steve McNamara, along with ex-national coach Ellery Hanley, while ex-Australia coach Wayne Bennett could be a contender if the net is spread worldwide.
Also in the frame is England RU defence coach Mike Ford, but another approach for Wales rugby union defence coach Shaun Edwards is unlikely to be any more successful than last time.
It has been confirmed that former Huddersfield coach Tony Smith will help unearth his full-time successor as England team manager after agreeing to work with a four-man panel appointed to draw up a list of suitable candidates.
Smith, 42, announced an end to his three-year tenure in the wake of England’s 46-16 Gillette Four Nations final defeat by Australia in order to spend more time with his family and concentrate on his club coaching role with Warrington Wolves .
On the panel are RFL chief executive Nigel Wood, former Wigan and Great Britain centre Barrie Jon Mather, who joined the Rugby Football League as head of player development this summer, head of human performance Clive Brewer and head of England’s elite training squad Paddy Mortimer.
Names in the frame?
Steve McNamara: The 38-year-old Bradford Bulls coach is currently in the England camp as assistant.
Ellery Hanley: The former Wigan star is readily available but has limited coaching experience at the top level.
John Kear: Having taken the blame when England coach for the poor showing in the World Cup 2000, he would love another shot at the job.
Mike Ford: The former Wigan and Great Britain scrum half may be tempted to switch codes from his current slot as England RU defence coach.
