England coach agrees longer deal

England coach, Shaun Wane has agreed a contract extension with the Rugby Football League (RFL). which will keep him in the role until the end of 2022.
Shaun Wane. Picture by Anthony Devlin PA WireShaun Wane. Picture by Anthony Devlin PA Wire
Shaun Wane. Picture by Anthony Devlin PA Wire

The former Wigan Warriors boss and Leeds player - who has yet to take charge of an England game - was initially appointed until the end of next year’s Rugby League World Cup.

Wane, 55, said: "It’s an honour to be England head coach so I didn’t have to think too hard about extending my contract.

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“Like everybody else, I’ve missed the live action, but it has given me extra time to talk with players, build relationships, share ideas and let them know what they need to do to make the England team.

Ralph Rimmer. Picture by Bruce Rollinson.Ralph Rimmer. Picture by Bruce Rollinson.
Ralph Rimmer. Picture by Bruce Rollinson.

“Now Super League is back up and running, I’m excited to see the players back on the field, doing what they do best and developing the winning mentality needed for World Cup success.”

RFL chief executive Ralph Rimmer said Wane has made a "great impression within the RFL and across the sport in general".

He said: "I am delighted he will be staying on beyond the 2021 World Cup.

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"He has proved himself to be both energetic and versatile in difficult times and has adapted to what is in front of him.

“We are well aware that Shaun has recently attracted the attention of several NRL clubs and wanted to ensure that he had enough security that kept him absolutely focused on the job in hand."

England have no game this year because of the coronavirus crisis.

Rimmer added: “Like all of us, Shaun is bitterly disappointed not to be facing the Kangaroos this autumn, but he is not letting this short-term setback stand in the way of his long-term aim to make England the number one side in the world.

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“Shaun’s passion for England Rugby League is matched by meticulous planning and preparation and come autumn 2021 there will not be a better-prepared international side at the World Cup.”

Wane plans to attend live matches for the rest of this season and also visit club training sessions to strengthen lines of communication with players and club coaches.

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