The rumour mill continues to swirl around the identity of the next Hull FC head coach. Earlier in the week, Paul Rowley seemed likely to take the job, however he chose to stay at Salford Red Devils.
Now, Jenna Brooks has given a major update regarding Hull’s hunt for a new head coach. Brooks has named two candidates who may take the job. Both are currently assistant coaches in the NRL with a long association with Super League.
Two names in the frame for Hull FC
Speaking on The Verdict, Sky Sports pundit, Brooks, identified ex-Leeds Rhinos head coach, Brian McDermott as a front-runner. Brooks also named ex-Warrington and St Helens man, Lee Briers as the other option.
“Okay, alright, there’s two names I’m hearing. Lee Briers, which wouldn’t be a huge surprise.
“He’s come out, he’s said that, you know, he’s obviously assistant at the Brisbane Broncos, he’s come out and said that he would love to take charge of a Super League side.
“The other name I’m hearing is your former head coach at Toronto Wolfpack, Brian McDermott.”
However, Wilkin, who played under McDermott at the Wolfpack, was quick to pour cold water on these suggestions.
Wilkin believes McDermott is unlikely to leave the NRL at this stage. “I think he’s really well in at Newcastle” Wilkin said.
“There’s a lot of rumours that he’s going to maybe get the top job there or that he’s in line to get the top job there. So, I’d be very surprised if he came back to the UK.”
Too early for Briers
Wilkin was similarly dismissive of the prospects of Briers taking the top job at the MKM stadium. For Wilkin, Briers needs more experience to take on such a huge challenge.
“I think it’s too early for Lee Briers to come back” Wilkin said.
“I wouldn’t go away from the trajectory that his coaching career is on right now and take a pressurised job like Hull FC.
I just think it’s way too early in his career. And he’s in such a promising position and developing and learning in the NRL I’d be surprised if he comes back.”
Pressure on Myler to get it right
Myler is under pressure to get this decision right. Wilkin believes that it is crucial that Myler takes his time to appoint the right coach.
“I’m sure we’ll get plenty of candidates but the key thing for Hull FC is when you’re Richard Myler and you’re going into this job he’s got limited experience at that football director role.
“The big and first piece of news and the appointment that he needs to get right is the head coach not just for this year next year but for the next three four five years so I wouldn’t necessarily rush into a decision.”
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