Australian rugby league legend Andrew Johns has recently admitted he would consider coaching the Wallabies if the opportunity arose. The former Newcastle Knights halfback, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, made the admission in an interview with Fox Sports.
Johns said he was flattered to be linked with the Wallabies job and that he would consider it if the opportunity presented itself. He said he was passionate about rugby union and had a great respect for the game, but that he was currently focused on his media commitments.
Johns’ admission comes at a time when Wallabies coach Michael Cheika is under increasing pressure to turn around the team’s fortunes. The Wallabies have struggled in recent years and are currently ranked sixth in the world.
The news has also sparked speculation that Wallabies coach Michael Cheika could be replaced by Johns. However, Johns has played down such speculation, saying he is not actively seeking the job and that he is happy with his current media commitments.
Johns’ comments have also been welcomed by current Wallabies coach Michael Cheika, who said he was pleased to hear Johns was interested in coaching the Wallabies. Cheika said he was confident Johns would be a great addition to the coaching staff and that he would welcome him with open arms.
Meanwhile, Australian Rugby Union CEO Bill Pulver has also welcomed Johns’ comments, saying he was excited about the prospect of having someone of Johns’ calibre involved in the game. Pulver said he was confident Johns would bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role and that he would be an asset to the Wallabies.
Johns’ comments have also sparked speculation that he could target NRL stars for the Wallabies squad. Johns has previously expressed his admiration for NRL stars such as James Tedesco and Valentine Holmes, and it is believed he could look to bring them into the Wallabies set-up if he were to take up the coaching role.
Overall, Andrew Johns’ admission that he would consider coaching the Wallabies has been met with enthusiasm from both the Australian Rugby Union and fans of the game. While there is still speculation as to whether or not Johns will take up the role, it is clear that he would bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role if given the opportunity.