Sam Burgess makes sensational return to England as Warrington’s new coach
SAM BURGESS is making a sensational return to England after being named Warrington’s new coach from next season.
The dual-code star will replace sacked Daryl Powell from the beginning of next season after first choice Justin Holbrook changed his mind at the last minute.
Burgess’ appointment is a shock as his only head coaching experience was at Aussie semi-pro side Orara Valley Axemen.
But the Wolves have taken a punt on a two-year deal for the 34-year-old, who is an assistant at NRL side South Sydney Rabbitohs.
And chairman Stuart Middleton believes Burgess can become a coaching great, just like he became as a player.
He said: “He is an impressive, young and determined coach with a huge reputation within the sport.
“He was a leader for both club and country at the highest level throughout his playing career and is extremely well-driven to now make his mark as a coach in Super League.
“The ambition he has for the club and the culture he wants to instil really impressed and stood out for us during the interview process.
MOST READ IN RUGBY LEAGUE
“We firmly believe he is the right man to take the club forward.”
Gary Chambers will remain interim coach for the rest of the season before becoming Warrington’s director of rugby.
Richard Marshall will stay as an assistant while one more will be appointed, with Sean Long linked as Burgess prepares for moving back home.
But he is adamant he will be committed to the club owner by Hollywood superstar Russell Crowe until he leaves.
England’s captain at the 2017 World Cup final said: “From playing in the Super League to having the opportunity to lead an incredible club, it’s a full circle moment and one I am fully committed to and excited by.
“I want to thank Simon Moran, Stuart and Karl Fitzpatrick at the Wolves for their courage and collaboration, as I look forward to returning to England to coach this great club.
“To Russell, Blake Solly, Jason Demetriou and the stakeholders at South Sydney, thank you for supporting me in taking on this new position.
“We still have an opportunity to play some great football for the remainder of the year and to do so alongside our current staff and squad, is my focus.”