Sean Long set for major gig after Wakefield Trinity exit

In recent years it is as if Sean Long has conducted a tour of West Yorkshire starting out at Leeds Rhinos, taking charge of Featherstone Rovers before joining Wakefield Trinity.

Long joined Leeds at the end of 2020 after the former Hull FC and St Helens halfback had enjoyed a spell in Rugby Union coaching.

The halfback in effect was Head Coach for the final game of the 2020 season as Leeds met Catalans Dragons in the play-offs.

This is because Richard Agar was self isolating during the pandemic. Long would spent two full seasons with the Rhinos prior to joining Featherstone Rovers.

Expectations were high and Long had the Rovers top but routine defeats to play off rivals saw him lose his position as Head Coach to James Ford who would also be unable to deliver promotion.

He would then join Wakefield Trinity in an effort to guide them towards Super League safety.

At the time of his appointment, then Head Coach, Mark Applegarth said: “I’m delighted to have Sean on the coaching staff for the remaining six games and next season.”

“He brings a wealth of experience with him and I think he will add real value to our coaching and playing group. I feel like we will compliment each other well.”

Long himself added: “Thrilled to be joining Wakefield at such a crucial point for them in the season. We had a good chat about what Mark felt I could bring to the club.”

“Wakefield are now firmly in the business end of the season and every performance counts, I can’t wait to get out on the field with Mark and the team.”

However, after only a few games with the club, Long has now left his position as assistant coach as the club’s takeover looms large.

The new owners are set to appoint Daryl Powell as Head Coach for 2024 and thus Long and Applegarth has left the club.

Long, an accomplished assistant, won’t be short of suitors. He has been linked with Warrington Wolves in the past but also link up with St Helens and former teammate Paul Wellens.

Hull KR are in need of an assistant as well given the departure of Danny McGuire.

He has also been linked with becoming Oldham Head Coach by the Game Caller.