Shaun Wane set for Wigan Warriors return... but will Adrian Lam still have a role?

[josie andrews]

Shaun Wane remains on course for an emotional return to Wigan next year – in a new role - but Adrian Lam is in no rush to speak to the club about his own future.

As he prepares to take charge of England for the first time on Friday, Wigantoday understands talks with the Warriors have advanced. A deal has not been finalised but Wane – three-times a Grand Final-winning coach with his hometown club from 2012 to ‘18 – is set for a comeback as a rugby director, or other similar role, in 2022.

The newly-created position will oversee recruitment, coaching, development and the teams at all levels.

It’s likely to be a part-time position which will allow Wane to continue as England coach – as well as his business and speaking interests elsewhere. He wouldn't discuss the prospect at his last media conference but while his return looks nailed on, the coaching structure below him is far less certain.

Head coach Lam is on a rolling one-year contract and says he will wait a few weeks before holding talks with chairman Ian Lenagan and executive director Kris Radlinski about their intentions for next year.

“I’ll probably wait until July before I talk to the club about moving forward,” said Lam.

“I probably should have gone in two weeks ago, timing wise! Now is not the right time, personally for me, I need to focus on getting us back to winning ways and getting us back to the top of the table.”

One of his assistants, John Winder, is out of contract at the end of this year and there is uncertainty over whether Thomas Leuluai will play on or take a coaching role next year.

Matty Peet and Sean O’Loughlin are also on the staff as assistants.

https://www.wigantoday.net/sport/rugby- ... le-3282536

[Dan2266]

He's already involved with our recruitment & coaching staff plans for 2022, Its more advanced than the article suggests.

[Mike]

He's already involved with our recruitment & coaching staff plans for 2022, Its more advanced than the article suggests.

Does that explain Thornley coming back?

[keptinthedarkfans]

So am I right in thinking we are creating a new position to accommodate wane. Yet cutting back on spending for team rebuilding. Says it all really jobs for the boys

[medlocke]

It isn't going to end until IL get's rid of KR and steps down himself

[wall_of_voodoo]

Why does the headline ask the question about Lam having a role?

Why should he is the question that should be asked. With lockers and Leuluai expected to be involved somewhere in the backroom why do we need more hangers on??

[Dan2266]

He's already involved with our recruitment & coaching staff plans for 2022, Its more advanced than the article suggests.

Does that explain Thornley coming back?

I would assume so, I don't know specifics but I know he is already involved in recruitment

[moto748]

I for one welcome our new Wane overlord!

[nathan_rugby]

I really don’t like the sound of this at all.

It’s going to be an excuse for getting sub standard first team coaches in.

[keptinthedarkfans]

I really don’t like the sound of this at all.

It’s going to be an excuse for getting sub standard first team coaches in.

Already got one of them.I am more concerned about getting sub standard players in