Shaun Wane drops hint over World Cup hooker as he discusses Michael McIlorum and Paul McShane

Shaun Wane is the ideal candidate to lead England into the Rugby League World Cup.

England through and through with a determination to lead his nation to glory, Wane’s pride at taking the job is there for all to see.

And, following on from including England football boss Gareth Southgate in a recent meeting, Wane has revealed that he will continue to invite speakers from other sports.

“He (Southgate) is going to be involved in some sessions and will get involved in the World Cup,” Wane said.

“He loves league and he loves sport but we are also hoping to bring in many more speakers from now until the end of the World Cup.”

Wane also touched on the heartbreaking news given to Lewis Dodd, with the St Helens halfback ruled out of the prestigious competition at the end of the year following a serious Achilles injury.

“It’s very sad what happened to him but it makes mine, Paul Anderson’s, Paul Sculthorpe’s, Andy Last’s and Paul Wellens’ job more important in making sure we can’t have things going wrong in the World Cup and that we can hit the ground running.”

The Wigan man is excited about the prospect of choosing a hooker for the World Cup, but has ruled out a return for James Roby – unless the St Helens hooker approaches him first after retiring from international rugby league.

“We have some great nines in the comp, Micky Mac (Michael McIlorum) has been playing well, Paul McShane played well last week.

“James Roby is in great form, I’m really pleased for him but he’s made his decision and I wouldn’t like to interfere with that unless he approached me.”