Salford City Reds have named Brian Noble as their new permanent head coach, six weeks after the dismissal of Phil Veivers.
Head of youth Alan Hunte was given the job on an interim basis, but will now step aside for the former Great Britain boss.
Owner Dr Marwan Koukash made the announcement ahead of the club’s Super League clash with Hull FC.
The 52-year-old has not coached since 2010, after leaving the now-defunct Crusaders – working as a pundit in the meantime – but was hotly tipped for the role in the past few weeks.
After a successful playing career as a hooker – captaining England – Noble moved into coaching in 2001, taking the helm at hometown-club Bradford Bulls.
‘Nobby’ spent five years at Odsal, steering the Bulls to three Super League Grand Final victories, three World Club Championships and a Challenge Cup title, alongside his international duties.
Noble was appointed Wigan head coach in 2006 – following the dismissal of Ian Millward, who was sacked from Castleford Tigers this week – but failed to win any silverware in four seasons.
Hunte had previously stated his own desire to remain in the position permanently but after a run of four losses, one draw and just a single win, will step down following today’s game
Experienced NRL coach Brian Smith, brother of Warrington boss Tony, was also widely tipped for the role.
Noble will be officially unveiled ahead of next week’s Challenge Cup fourth round draw at professional new-boys University of Gloucestershire All Golds.
Image courtesy of Sky Sports, via YouTube, with thanks
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