Brian McDermott wants to lead England to 2030 Rugby League World Cup
Brian McDermott wants to remain as England head coach through to the 2030 Rugby League World Cup.
The 56-year-old was appointed on a short-term agreement in April to guide England through this autumn's World Cup, according to BBC. He has now said he would like to stay on for the next four-year cycle.
This year's tournament takes place in Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea in October and November. England open against Tonga in Perth on 17 October. They will head into that game with no warm-up matches beforehand.
McDermott is doing the England job on a part-time basis. He is currently working as an assistant coach at Gold Coast Titans in Australia's NRL, the elite club competition in Australia and New Zealand. His predecessor Shaun Wane held the England role full-time.
Wane stepped down nine months before the World Cup after six years in charge, Sky Sports reported. McDermott, who has won the Super League Grand Final four times as a coach, was confirmed as his successor on 23 April, according to Reuters.
For this tournament he will be assisted by Sean O'Loughlin and Paul Wellens. Both men know the international scene well. O'Loughlin captained England and Great Britain during a long playing career. Wellens has since coached St Helens in Super League, Britain's top club competition.
McDermott intends for George Williams to captain the side at the World Cup. The half-back is a key organiser, the player who directs the attack. He returned to action in August after four months out with a neck injury. He will leave Super League for NRL club Dolphins after the tournament.
England are still bidding to win a first Rugby League World Cup. Australia have long set the pace in the 13-a-side code. That history puts extra weight on every selection call this autumn.
McDermott has already offered Jake Connor a route back into the squad. Connor is the current Man of Steel, the annual award for the best player in Super League. His creativity could give England another option with the ball.
What makes this stand out is the timing. McDermott is making a long-term case before a ball has been kicked at this World Cup. He is backing his methods in public.
For fans, this means a clear picture. A short-term appointment with a long-term ambition. The first answer comes in Perth.
