Wigan ready to name Noble's successor

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A defeat which brought Wigan's season to a halt also signalled the end of Noble's three and a half years at the DW Stadium. The former Great Britain boss confirmed his contract was not being renewed amid speculation linking him with a move to Celtic Crusaders.

It was one of rugby league's worst-kept secrets and Wigan have already called a press conference for Wednesday to announce their new man, with reserve coach Shaun Wane and Australian Michael Maguire thought to be in the running.

Maguire is currently an assistant at NRL Grand Finalists Melbourne Storm, while Wane is a former Wigan and Great Britain forward who guided the Warriors' reserves to their title last Sunday.

Noble said he had been told of Wigan chairman Ian Lenagan's decision just over a week ago but kept the news from the bulk of his players until after tonight's match.

Lenagan, who took control of the club from previous owner Dave Whelan while Noble was in position, said: "It has been a difficult decision not to offer Brian an extension to his current contract.

"I have the greatest regard for his absolute professionalism and he and I have worked together closely and well.

"However, we believe on balance that it is now time for change at Wigan to progress to even higher levels and to achieve the trophy-winning success which our fans rightly expect from a club of Wigan's heritage and squad potential."

The former Great Britain captain, who was national coach from 2005-07, declined to comment on his future other than to say he is to undergo knee surgery and that he is keen to remain a head coach.

"I met Ian Lenagan last Friday and we agreed to disagree on certain things," he said. "I understand Ian's desire to have a change, that is completely within the owner's right. Perhaps it could have been handled better. It has been tough but I've tried to handle it the best I could."