You are in > manchester.com  > News > Noble takes up Wigan challenge

Rugby League

Noble takes up Wigan challenge

20/04/2006

Brian Noble has been confirmed as the new head coach of Super League strugglers Wigan Warriors.

Ending weeks of speculation, Noble has agreed to leave reigning champions Bradford Bulls and take up the challenge of rejuvenating the former super power in rugby league.

Wigan lost again last Sunday to leave them rooted to the bottom of the league with eight defeats in their nine opening games of the season.

The side have been managerless since Ian Millward was sacked two weeks ago but Wigan chairman Maurice Lindsay is confident that Noble can turn the club around.

"I have known Brian since his days as a player and his commitment to the game is second to none," Lindsay said.

"We have told him that he will have all the support in the world, including time, to restructure the side and make Wigan competitive again."

Noble, who has put pen to paper on a deal until 2008, described his move from Odsal to the JJB as "both a great challenge and a great opportunity".

"The club has a special place in rugby league history and most people in the game would like the opportunity to be in charge," he added.

"I have had the most wonderful time at Bradford, both as a player and a coach, and I have enjoyed my time immensely.

"The club has wonderful fans and we have also had some great players and it has been my privilege to have been involved with them."

His departure from the Bulls, currently fourth in the Super League following six wins from their first nine games, means current assistant coach Steve McNamara is most likely to take over the hot seat.

© Adfero Ltd