Saints appoint Anderson as coach

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Daniel Anderson has been appointed the new coach of St Helens.

The 37-year-old Australian replaces Ian Millward, who was controversially sacked for gross misconduct on 10 May.

The former New Zealand coach will not take charge for Saturday's Super League match against Widnes, but he will be at the helm for Leeds' visit on 27 May.

"I am thrilled - St Helens are one of the great names and I am acutely aware of the proud history and the ambition to remain a leading force," he said.

"I know Saints have a great set of players and are fortunate enough to have great and passionate supporters.

Daniel is a top-flight coach who believes in attacking and winning rugby Eamonn McManus Saints chairman Anderson outlines Saints vision

"I'm greatly looking forward to the challenge ahead.

"It's been a pretty rapid process because I didn't speak to anyone until a couple of days ago."

Saints chairman Eamonn McManus welcomed his new recruit, but acknowledged the tough task ahead.

"Daniel is a top-flight coach who believes in attacking and winning rugby.

"He is young, ambitious and very motivated and undoubtedly has the capability of continuing our traditions of great success at the Saints.

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"He has a difficult task ahead and needs all of our support."

Anderson, out of club coaching since parting company with the New Zealand Warriors a year ago, had been looking after the New Zealand national side.

And New Zealand Rugby League chief executive Peter Cordtz confirmed that Anderson would be missed.

"Given Daniel's obvious qualities as a coach it's disappointing to lose him," he said.

"But we've always said we were well aware a good opportunity would be hard for Daniel to turn down. We were never going to stand in his way."