Brian McDermott is set to be appointed as the new head coach of the England men's rugby league team this week, replacing Shaun Wane. The 56-year-old, currently an assistant coach at NRL side Newcastle Knights, was chosen from a five-man shortlist that included Sam Burgess, Brad Arthur, Paul Rowley, and Steve McNamara.
McDermott is the most successful coach in Super League history, having led Leeds Rhinos to eight major honours, including a historic treble in 2015. He will take charge of England for this autumn's Rugby League World Cup in Australia, as the team seeks its first World Cup victory in over 50 years.
The Rugby Football League (RFL) initially targeted Hull KR coach Willie Peters, but he withdrew after being appointed head coach of the Papua New Guinea Chiefs NRL team for 2028. Brad Arthur was also a strong contender, but the RFL sought assurances about his future at Leeds, which remain unresolved.
McDermott began his coaching career with London Broncos before moving to Leeds, where he won every domestic trophy. He later coached Toronto Wolfpack and Featherstone Rovers. His appointment is expected to be officially announced on Thursday.
