Shaun Edwards warned of the pressures of coaching Wigan – by man he may replace

SHAUN Edwards has been warned he faces a hell of a job if he becomes Wigan’s new coach.

And departing boss Shaun Wane is being lined up to join Scotland's rugby union coaching team.

Edwards, a playing legend, is believed to top the Warriors’ wanted list as they search for Wane’s replacement, which the soon-to-be ex-boss has offered his help for.

But Wane warned the Wales RU defence coach the pressures of taking charge of his hometown club would be huge, saying: “You have to be ready for it. We’re the most highly decorated club in the world and you have to win, there are no excuses.

“Having injuries and players out, you have to win and that’s pressure and you have to win in a certain way.

“It’s a big ask but Shaun is a very smart operator and has been a success wherever he’s been – but coming here would be a big challenge.”

Sources say 53-year-old Wane, who became emotional talking about his decision to step down, has been offered the chance to join Gregor Townsend's staff as defence coach.

And he admits it would be difficult to cross codes, adding: “I’ve got a lot of respect for the game, it’s complicated and league is very simple in comparison.”

But he added he is also open to heading to the NRL as nothing is yet signed and insists the signing of Zak Hardaker, currently serving a 14-month drugs ban, played no part in his decision.

He said: “I’d love to go to the NRL. Whether they would accept an Englishman, I’m not so sure, but I’m completely open to it.

“And whoever says the Zak Hardaker deal caused my decision doesn’t know me. I wouldn’t have a player forced on me. To say that was the reason is way off the mark.

“My mind’s clear, I’d be open to anything. I’m a professional coach and have a lot to offer. Leaving has been in my mind for a long time. Certain things happened and I felt it was time for me to look at something else.”