Brian McDermott makes surprise rugby league return with Oldham

Former Leeds Rhinos head coach Brian McDermott is back in rugby league after joining Betfred Championship strugglers Oldham as coaching consultant.

McDermott, who guided the Rhinos to four Grand Final triumphs, two Challenge Cups and a World Club Challenge in his eight years at Headingley, will help fill the void at the Roughyeds created by the departure of Matt Diskin as head coach.

The former Bradford forward, who has been out of the game since Toronto Wolfpack pulled out of Super League 12 months ago, has been appointed to the end of the season and will start work immediately, working closely with Brendan Sheridan as assistant coach as Oldham battle to avoid relegation.

Oldham chairman Chris Hamilton said: “This is a huge capture for the club and one that I am sure will be massively welcomed by all concerned, especially by our supporters.

“Brian is coming in as coaching consultant until the end of the season – he will be at training tomorrow night – and he will work closely with Shez.

“His marvellous record as player and coach speaks for itself. More than that, he is his own man and that was very much part of the appeal in talking to him.

“I have always had a lot of respect for Brian and I don’t think we could have got anyone better in the situation we are in.”

McDermott, 51, said: “Chris asked me for help and advice. We met for talks and I am pleased to say I will come on board at Roughyeds as a coaching consultant until the end of the season.”