Shaun Wynn: England coach steps down nine months before the Rugby League World Cup

How will Wayne’s time in charge be judged?

In terms of raw facts, he has failed to win a World Cup on home soil or even reach the final in 2022, losing all three matches in the historic Ashes series against Australia last year by just two tries.

However, there were many highlights of the trip as well. Powerful NRL teams Tonga and Samoa were eliminated without a loss here, while apart from the World Cup semi-final, the performances created an impressive buzz.

He was excellent with the media and the players loved playing with him, at least the ones he selected. Those around him, such as Jake Connor, will likely see their international route revived following this development.

If there was a criticism of Wayne, you could say that some players don’t fit his personality type even if they seem to add something to the personnel mix. There was a reference to control and structure over the dissident chaos. Sometimes you need something different against elite opposition.

However, whoever comes will have the same problems that Wayne did.

The calendar is running against England, with no space for friendlies or even training camps at the track during the season, such is the demand on clubs and players.

In a World Cup year, it might have been wise to seek continuity and renewal later.

The new appointment will not have enough time to instill new philosophies and game plans, which are vital.

If England are so far from overtaking Australia with a sense of stability and growth, how are they any closer after changing course and tearing up the plan?

Fair play to Wayne. He has stepped aside to give England the opportunity to take a different route, perhaps part-time.

There should be no shortage of candidates, despite the feeling that one’s hands are tied behind one’s back in assuming responsibility.

Wakefield’s Daryl Powell, Wigan’s Matt Peat and St Helens’ Paul Rowley are all managers who would bring something to the table if appointed.