McNamara confirms Wellens to step up with England

England coach Steve McNamara has confirmed that Paul Wellens is set for greater involvement with the England set-up.

James Lowes has been appointed as McNamara’s assistant coach for this year’s internationals against France and New Zealand, and McNamara feels that he and Wellens will bring a lot to the team.

“James will join myself and Paul Wellens on the coaching team,” said McNamara.

“Paul has contributed a great deal over the last two years and will now take on greater responsibilities within the England team.

“It’s coming to that time of the season where international plans are taking shape and games are approaching quickly: it’s exciting. James will slot into this role quite naturally and do a great job for England.”

McNamara has slo welcomed the appointment of Lowes as his assistant coach for the forthcoming internationals against France and New Zealand.

Lowes, currently the head coach at Bradford Bulls, was previously part of the England prorgamme in 2010, and McNamara believes that he will offer plenty of value to the national set-up.

“James will hit the ground running when the England team get together,” said McNamara.

“He was part of the coaching staff when we introduced the Elite Training Squad in 2010 so he is well aware of our standards, our values and what we want to achieve.