Reports down under reveal lead candidates for Hull FC job

It has been a baptism of fire for new Hull FC Director of Rugby, Richie Myler. With the Airlie Birds struggling on the pitch, Myler has to find a new head coach to turn their fortunes around.

Myler had previously attempted to attempt Salford boss, Paul Rowley, to the club. But Rowley dealt a blow to FC by rejecting their approach. Now Myler is turning his sights further afield in the search for a new head coach.

Hull FC chase two English coaches from NRL

Earlier this week, Jenna Brooks linked Hull FC with two major names currently working in the NRL. Brooks named Brian McDermott and Lee Briers as two potential candidates for the vacancy. McDermott is currently the assistant coach at Newcastle Knights, while Briers is assistant coach at the Brisbane Broncos.

Now those rumours appear to be gaining traction. The Daily Telegraph in Australia are reporting that Hull FC’s interest in two English coaches is hotting up.

The Telegraph reports: “Hull FC are targeting Broncos assistant coach Lee Briers in a bid to reignite the struggling Super League club.

“This masthead can reveal Hull FC have turned to the NRL in search of answers, sounding out Briers and Newcastle Knights assistant coach Brian McDermott.”

Two coaches with glittering careers

McDermott and Briers both have the pedigree needed to take on the challenge at Hull. McDermott is the most successful head coach in Leeds Rhinos’ history. He led the Rhinos to four Super League titles, one League Leader’s Shield, two Challenge Cups and a World Club Challenge. He has also had spells in charge of London Broncos, Toronto Wolfpack, and Featherstone Rovers.

Briers had a hugely successful career with Warrington Wolves and St Helens, before becoming a coach after retiring. He has worked as an assistant at Warrington and Wigan and was part of the coaching team for Wigan’s 2022 Challenge Cup win. He moved to Brisbane for the 2023 season and is a highly regarded coach.

Brooks’ colleague, Jon Wilkin, was uncertain whether now was the right time for either man to take the role at the MKM Stadium. According to Wilkin, McDermott may be in line for the Head Coach’s job at Newcastle. He also believes it is too early for Briers to become a head coach, instead advocating that Justin Holbrook is the ideal candidate for the job.