John Kear considered for Widnes Vikings coaching role

John Kear has emerged as a contender to become Widnes Vikings head coach, Rugby League Live understands. Kear, who is currently without a club coaching job following his departure from Bradford Bulls in April, has been described as a primary candidate for the position.

Kear, 67, has enjoyed a superb career that has seen him take charge of clubs such as Hull FC, Wakefield Trinity, PSG and Sheffield Eagles, where he famously won the Challenge Cup in 1998. But any thoughts of Kear stepping away from coaching appear to be premature with a stint at the Vikings thought to be a possibility.

The Vikings have undertaken a prolonged selection process ever since the departure of Simon Finnigan, who coincidentally departed Widnes the same day as Kear did the Bulls. Ironically, Widnes host Bradford, Kear's old club, on Thursday.

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Widnes are taking their time with the appointment as they prepare for a significant period in the club's history. It's believed the club will be increasing their playing budget for next season and they have already signed Kyle Amor ahead of next season. Rugby League Live understands they have held talks with other current Super League players regarding a move to the club next season.

Other coaches have also been in the mix for the position, with North Wales Crusaders boss Anthony Murray believed to have been in contention. However, off-field commitments meant he was unable to go further through the selection process.

Kear has not been short of offers since departing Odsal. Alongside his World Cup coaching role with Wales, he is believed to have received interest from a number of clubs including one of his former ones, Wakefield, though