England duo want to see Shaun Wane stay on as head coach

Drew Darbyshire
Shaun Wane England News Images

Photo: Mark Cosgrove/News Images

England pair Tommy Makinson and Morgan Knowles want to see Shaun Wane extend his time as head coach, saying that he’s the right man for the job.

Makinson and Knowles, who both play for Super League champions St Helens, both played in England’s heartbreaking 27-26 defeat against Samoa in last year’s World Cup semi-finals.

Wane’s future is up in the air following the tournament, with the Rugby Football League currently reviewing the situation.

But Makinson wants to see Wane sign a new deal, telling Love Rugby League: “Without a shadow of a doubt and I’m not just saying it because he was our coach. He was brilliant.

“We got beat in the semi-final of a World Cup. If that drop goal didn’t go over and we went up the other end and kicked a drop goal then performed against Australia, it’s a different story.

“I don’t know if Waney has got a year or two left or if he’s not, but I’d encourage the board to make sure it’s Waney going forward.

“He’s class, he’s one of my favourite coaches.

“He has been so successful with Wigan in the past. I don’t see anyone else who can take this country going forward at the minute. I feel like he’s the man, for sure.”

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And Knowles shared similar thoughts to Makinson, saying he hopes to see Wane remain as England boss.

“Waney was good, I enjoyed my time with him,” Knowles told Love Rugby League.

“With the international calendar, I don’t know where it’s up to or whether Waney is still in charge going forward. Hopefully that’s the case but I’m sure it’ll be clear soon, hopefully.”

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