SAM Burgess has been confirmed as the new head coach of Warrington Wolves.
Earlier today, the Warrington Guardian confirmed a deal to bring the England legend in to replace Daryl Powell was close to being finalised but now, the club have confirmed the news.
Burgess has signed a two-year deal but will remain in his current role as assistant coach with NRL giants South Sydney Rabbitohs, with whom he won a Premiership title in 2014 as part of a glittering playing career.
Gary Chambers will stay in interim charge of the Wire first team for the remainder of this season, after which he will move into a newly-formed director of rugby role at The Halliwell Jones Stadium.
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In the immediate future, is understood the club are set to bring in an additional coach to assist Chambers and Richard Marshall, who will remain as assistant coach when Burgess takes over, for the rest of the year.
A second assistant coaching appointment is set to be announced in due course, the club have said.
“We’re thrilled to have Sam join us as our new head coach,” Warrington Wolves chairman Stuart Middleton said in confirming that Burgess would become the club’s 21st permanent boss.
“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. We firmly believe he is the right man to take the club forward.
“We’re delighted also that Gary has agreed to become the club’s director of rugby.
“As part of our review of the rugby operations, we feel this new role will be strategically integral to both the short and long-term vision of the club.
“Gary’s expertise and knowledge of the game, matched by his passion for the club, makes him the perfect fit.
“He is hugely respected by the players, staff and fans and I’m excited for him to lead the club forward alongside Sam in this next chapter.”
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