Rick Stone named as new Lebanon coach

Former Huddersfield boss Rick Stone has been appointed as head coach of the Lebanon national team.

Stone, 52, is no stranger to international management having previously been coach of Fiji, leading them to the 2013 World Cup semi-finals.

The ex-Newcastle Knights man coached in Super League from July 2016 but was sacked midway through last season and replaced by Simon Woolford.

He said: “After a fantastic achievement in reaching the quarter-final the last World Cup, I am looking forward to continuing the development of the Cedars, and working with the next generation of players coming through our system.”

Stone will be assisted by former national team players George Ndaira, Michael Habib and Tony Skar.

LRLF president Assaad Feghali commented: “We had a lot of interest in the post and are really pleased to begin working with Rick and his team.

“Michael and Tony have been part of the LRLF for a few years now and have an excellent knowledge of the players that have progressed through our system, which will provide strong support. Rick’s experience, talent and leadership will be pivotal in directing Lebanon in this exciting new era.”

Lebanon are due to play Fiji in Sydney on June 22.