Six contenders to be the next Warrington Wolves head coach

With Steve Price heading back to Australia at the end of 2021, rumours about who will take over the mantle at the Halliwell Jones has begun in earnest. But, just who are six contenders to take the reins?

Shaun Wane

He was Warrington’s nemesis when in charge of Wigan, but Shaun Wane would perhaps be the best – and right – man for the vacancy. A Grand Final winner three times with the Warriors, Wane knows what it takes to win finals – something which Warrington have struggled to do in recent years. Plus, being in charge of England would not be too much of a distraction considering the lack of international tests throughout the season.

Brian McDermott

With the future of Toronto Wolfpack up in the air, so is the future of Brian McDermott. Really not given a chance to show his credentials with another Super League side, the former Leeds boss could be persuaded to return to management in the top-flight if the Wolves come calling. Boasting a CV that other coaches look at in envy, McDermott would certainly bring a trophy-winning pedigree to the Halliwell Jones.

Craig Bellamy

Craig Bellamy would certainly bring the wow factor to Super League after enjoying success upon success with Melbourne Storm in the NRL. Six Premierships later and Bellamy is often regarded as the greatest NRL coach in the competition’s history. And, with 2021 expected to be his last year in charge, he may well be tempted by a completely different challenge.

Shane Flanagan

Former Cronulla boss Shane Flanagan already has ties with the Warrington club, with Steve Price the former’s assistant at the Sharks when the two won the NRL Premiership in 2016. Though a ban for breaching a suspension has stopped Flanagan from taking a head coaching role in Australia, there is nothing stopping the 55-year-old from crossing hemispheres to take over at Warrington.

Daryl Powell

Whenever there is a coaching job available, Daryl Powell’s name continues to be thrown into the limelight despite his repeated emphasis on his loyalty to Castleford. 2021 will be Powell’s eighth full season in charge of the Tigers and the frustration felt by the ex-Leeds boss last season was clearly shown as the campaign wore on. Maybe a new challenge – where money would be provided on a much more grandiose scale – would be enough for Powell to quit the Jungle.

Andrew Johns

Following a cameo spell for the Wolves in 2005, Andrew Johns will always go down in folklore at Warrington despite playing just three games. He has yet to enter into a coaching role either in Australia or the northern hemisphere, but could a possible renaissance with a club that holds him so dearly be on the cards?