The race for the England head coach role is heating up, with the job title being narrowed down to three candidates ahead of the Rugby League World Cup in October.
Leeds Rhinos coach Brad Arthur, South Sydney Rabbitohs legend Sam Burgess and Gold Coast Titans assistant Brian McDermott are among the names being reported by NRL.com that currently lead the race.
With Willie Peters confirming his appointment to the new NRL franchise, the PNG Chiefs, it has ruled him out of contention to take over the English role.
Peters was the frontrunner for the task, taking over Hull KR four seasons ago, turning them from cellar-dwellers to Super League premiers while also dismantling the Brisbane Broncos to claim the crown as world champs.
The England coach is set to be announced in April, with the Rugby Football League creating a shortlist of coaches who they believe can take over the head gig.
Former England coach Shaun Wane stood down in January following a disappointing Ashes series, where England failed to land a blow on the Kangaroos.
Arthur is looking to make the step-up from Leeds Rhinos, with many speculating he is line for the Manly Sea Eagles role after Anthony Seibold's sacking last week.
Meanwhile, McDermott has a great rap sheet of accolades in the Super League, claiming four titles with the Rhinos along with Challenge Cup and World Club Challenge wins.
Sam Burgess is also widely speculated to take over an NRL position at some point, and is currently applying his trade for the Warrington Wolves.
He played 24 tests in England colours, and would instill a significant amount of belief and passion into the jersey, similar to the way he carried himself on the field.
England will play their first game of the 2026 RLWC on October 17 in Perth against an imposing Tongan outfit.
