Hull KR’s CEO has backed Willie Peters for England, while also addressing the recent NRL conversations.
Hull KR head coach Willie Peters lifts the Challenge Cup trophy with CEO Paul Lakin at Wembley.
Hull KR CEO Paul Lakin insists he is “totally relaxed” about Willie Peters’ future amid NRL conversations and has backed the Robins’ leader as the best man for the England job.
After leading Rovers to world club glory, head coach Peters revealed his interest in the vacant PNG Chiefs role ahead of their inaugural 2028 season. He has also made no secret of his ambition to coach in the NRL, having previously served as an assistant in Australia at numerous clubs.
For Lakin, such interest comes as no surprise, given their close working relationship at Sewell Group Craven Park.
“I’m totally relaxed,” he said. “I can’t say anything more than that.
“We talk openly – we talk every day. I expect that kind of interest. We’ve won four trophies over the last year. It’s about when that’ll be and the timing, and it’ll be something we agree at the right time.
“He’s contracted until the end of 2028. I’m not purposely trying to be relaxed, but when you talk to someone every day, it’s not smoke and mirrors.
“He’s completely respectful to the club, and he’s got a job to do. It wouldn’t surprise me if he saw his contract out – it genuinely wouldn’t. Equally, I wouldn’t be surprised if we had to have that conversation. The NRL season hasn’t even started, it’s just business as usual.
“At the moment, we’re just focussed on getting the first two points of the season and getting up that Super League table.”
The passionate CEO has also backed Peters for the vacant England role ahead of this year’s World Cup Down Under, insisting “he’s the man for the job.”
The Rugby Football League is searching for a successor to Shaun Wane, who stepped down after six years in charge. Importantly, Lakin has confirmed the club would support a dual role, with the England position expected to revert to part-time status.
“I think he should get the England job,” Lakin said. “I think he’s the right man for it. He wants it, and I can’t think of anyone with better credentials.”
Hull KR in Las Vegas in association with Hanson Electrical.