Hull FC interim head coach Andy Last has confirmed his uncertainty over his England role after Shaun Wane’s resignation and the appointment of Brian McDermott.
Last was an assistant coach under Shaun Wane, however, Wane’s resignation in January has spelt uncertainty with the Hull FC man confirming that he has heard nothing from the RFL since that decison.
A replacement for Wane has now been confirmed with former Leeds Rhinos boss and current Gold Coast Titans assistant Brian McDermott appointed to the role that Wane once held.
McDermott fielded questions from the media on Thursday morning, shortly after his confirmed appointment, and was asked about his coaching staff but mentioned no names, only confirming that his process of appointments is under way and that NRL coaches would also be considered.
Hours after McDermott’s presser, Andy Last spoke to BBC Radio Humberside in what was the first presser of his current sting Hull FC interim and confirmed that his current England status remains unclear.
“Not heard anything from the RFL since Shaun’s dismissal,” Last confirmed when asked about his situation.
“I’ve not heard anything from the RFL with regards to my position as England assistant, so I’m not sure.”
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Hull FC interim backs McDermott but questions Wane exit
The 45-year-old was also asked for his opinions on McDermott as a coach and spoke favourably, though he also asserted his belief that Shaun Wane would have been the right man to take England to this year’s Rugby League World Cup.
Last said: “I think he’s a good appointment because he’s English. I’m a big believer in that the England head coach should be English.
“Brian is very very successful coach, he’s won lots of trophies and is a man of principle so I can anticipate him doing a really really strong job.”
Last then added: “For me, I’d have kept Shaun in charge up to the World Cup. That’s just my personal opinion. Shaun’s an outstanding coach and I don’t think it was a great decision to move him from his position.”
Brian McDermott now has just under six months to get to grips with the role before leading England out in Perth in their first group game against Tonga, though it’s still to be seen who will be alongside him in his coaching staff.
