'Know in the next few days': Robertson drops ABs coaching bombshell

Scott Robertson has dropped an intriguing hint about the All Blacks head coaching process, saying the New Zealand Rugby Union may make an announcement “in the next few days.”

The NZRU are set to break with tradition this year, by announcing the next All Blacks head coach ahead of this year’s Rugby World Cup in France.

Current coach Ian Foster has come under immense pressure throughout his tenure in the top job, and this decision doesn’t suggest that he’ll remain in the role.

Instead, fan favourite Scott Robertson is believed to be among the front-runners for the position.

Robertson, who has won six Super Rugby titles in as many years with the champion Crusaders, is reportedly one of the favourites along with Japan coach Jamie Joseph.

Speaking about the new head coaching process in Christchurch on Wednesday, a smiling Scott Robertson revealed he hasn’t “signed anything yet.”

“It’s one of those times, I’m just waiting for the NZRU to make the announcements,” Robertson told reporters.

“You have conversations in the background, as an employee, understanding we go through clear processes.

“What I’m saying is, hopefully we know in the next few days.

“I haven’t signed anything yet. I’m trying to be really professional, as professional as I can be; take great advice and have good conversations with who I need to.

“NZRU have been as good in that regard.”

New Zealand Rugby fans have been calling for change for quite some time now, following a disastrous start to their international campaign last year.

After losing to Ireland and Argentina on home soil for the first time ever, the All Blacks appeared to be heading down the wrong path ahead of the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

While the men in black found some form throughout the gruelling Test campaign – finishing their season on a seven match unbeaten streak – fans want to know what’s next.

And they may be about to get their wish.

Veteran coach Ian Foster’s contract is set to expire after this year’s World Cup, and he’s not expected to renew that deal either – enter Scott Robertson.

“They key word here is professional,” Robertson added. “I understand my roles and responsibilities, where it stands.

“As a head coach, you’re going to have this happen as part of your career. Our jobs are results driven, it’s board driven.

“People make decisions and you live with them. My integrity is really important, making sure I live by those standards all the time.

“I trust their process, take a big breath when I need to. It’ll all work out.”

The international rugby coaching landscape is undergoing radical change ahead of this year’s World Cup.

Former England coach Eddie Jones has returned to Australia, and set to lead the Wallabies in France later this year. Dave Rennie is now a free agent.

Steve Borthwick replaced Jones in England, and Warren Gatland is back in charge of Wales.

Over the last few months, rumours have dominated headlines around the rugby world; and there’s one name which has come up more than any other.

Scott Robertson.

Robertson has been linked with numerous jobs around the world, including the England position. But the former All Black wants to stay in New Zealand.

“I’ve had options, but like I’ve always said, my preference is to be here in NZ and coach my country.

“I’ve been really patient. I think, where we are now, that’s what I’ve got to deal with, rather than what has happened.

“I’ve had options, like everyone else, but the next two weeks is big.”

However, the NZRU have attempted to downplay Robertson’s comments as their released their own statement following press conference.

“New Zealand Rugby is continuing to have internal discussions, but an announcement about the All Blacks Head Coach or process is not imminent,” the statement read.