England head coach Steve McNamara wouldn’t discuss his future following his side’s series victory over New Zealand.
Saturday’s defeat of the Kiwis was McNamara’s last game as England head coach under his existing contract, with speculation about his future rife over recent weeks.
It is believed that McNamara has signed a two-year extension at Sydney Roosters, where he is currently assistant. The NRL club have yet to confirm that news.
The former Bradford Bulls head coach took up his post as England boss in 2010 before combining the role with his job as the Roosters in 2013.
It was alleged that McNamara wouldn’t remain in the role if England lost the series with New Zealand, but following their triumph over the world’s highest-ranked side, it is unclear what action the RFL will now take.
McNamara finally spoke out after England’s victory, but remained coy on his future.
“It’s the same as before. We’d always get the tournaments out of the way, sit down and assess it and I’ll now speak to the relevant people involved.” Said McNamara
“It’s a huge honour to represent your country and we all feel strongly about it – players, coaches and backroom staff. It is the finest thing that you can possibly do, but these issues are something I’ll deal with post-tournament. These things aren’t simple, and I’m in no rush.”
His future has stirred a major debate, with opinions split on whether McNamara should remain in the job. Garry Schofield spoke to TotalRL.com saying McNamara has to leave the position, whilst Jamie Peacock defended McNamara on the back of Schofield’s comments during the BBC’s coverage of England’s victory.
