Super League

Future Wigan head coach Shaun Edwards considering U-turn

by
Ben Carney
February 27, 2019

Shaun Edwards may back out of taking over as Wigan head coach next season in favour of a rugby union stay.

The 52-year-old has already signed a three-year deal to take charge at the DW Stadium after the union World Cup later this year, however, rumours are circulating that he wants to stay in the 15-man code.

In a unique move, the Warriors announced Adrian Lam as head coach for this season before he would hand the reins over to Edwards from 2020 onwards.

But that may not happen now after he almost put off the prospect of becoming Wigan boss during an interview with BBC Radio Four.

“If you live in Wigan, trust me, the pressure of coaching Wigan rugby league with the history of the club, it’s very intense,” Edwards said.

“It means a lot to the people of Wigan. When and if that challenge comes along I’ll be ready to try to answer that challenge.

“If I do a year or two in Wigan or whatever, there’s plenty of time to come back to rugby union.

“I love coaching and I’m privileged to have a job I enjoy doing. I never take coaching for granted. The fact I’m involved in a Six Nations is something I treasure. I’d like to be involved again.”

There was plenty excitement among Cherry and Whites fans when Edwards was announced, having enjoyed a trophy-laden 15-year spell with the club in the 80’s and 90’s.

However, the league legend is seemingly loving his time in union and has also been linked with taking over as head coach at London Wasps.

https://twitter.com/RugbyInsideLine/status/1100493433741996033

Edwards had a 10-year stint with Wasps as defence and backs coach but left the position at the end of 2011 to become Wales assistant coach to Warren Gatland.

Before the Six Nations, Wigan Chairman Ian Lenagan said that Adrian Lam could potentially remain as the club’s head coach if he was a success this season.

However, that decision may well be taken out of his hands with Edwards sought after in the 15-man game and reluctant to fully commit to his move to the Warriors.