Andy Last gives update on Castleford Tigers coaching role

Castleford Tigers interim boss Andy Last has been open about wanting the job permanently.

And after the win over Catalans Dragons, Last feels closer to the job:

“It’s a strange one. Against Warrington it was a definite ‘I’m further away from getting the job than I’ve ever been’, and then last week after putting in a good performance against Catalans I felt as though I got a little bit closer to it again.

“It’s hard because I’ve obviously verbalised my desire. I want the job, I feel as though I can make an impact and I’ve got a plan that I want to do moving forward. But it’s difficult to put that plan into action when you haven’t been confirmed as the head coach.

“What I am being is being very very professional. I’m trying to galvanise the group, the staff have been sensational. They’re fully behind the tweaks and changes I’ve made.

“It’s not been seen on the field in terms of results but it feels a little bit different around the place. Hopefully we’ll get the win on Thursday and that gets me a little bit closer to the job.”

He also believes a decision needs to be made soon given the number of players off contract:

“The sooner the decision gets made, the better for everybody. Not only the players but the club and they can get behind whoever the coach may be.

“It needs freshening up, the fact that there’s 14 players off contract gives the incoming coach some scope to try and put his own mark on things.

“The club is a good club, I like the people who work there and the fans are sensational. The fans who went out to France last week were superb, we’re over the moon with the fact that the team gave everything they had and they know that, and that’s what they ask for.

“I’m giving everything that I have to try and get some wins and positive performances and hopefully that’ll be enough to get me the job.”