You think?

Bingo, and perhaps they genuinely want to open up the search, rather than just posting the advert for the sake of it

WOuld it be a distraction or a massive boost if our new coach was announced this week?

I would say it would be a distraction but it isnt going to happen if you read this rlhttp://www.wigantoday.net/sport/wigan-warriors/right_time_for_gaz_1_3594069rl

Meanwhile, chairman Ian Lenagan has refused to clarify the ongoing uncertainty over the coaching position at Wigan.

The seemingly inevitable appointment of assistant Shaun Wane as Maguire’s successor has dragged on for months, with no official confirmation from the club.

Yesterday the Warriors ran adverts in the rugby league trade press seeking an assistant coach – which appeared to suggest Wane’s appointment as head coach might be imminent.

However, the adverts were worded that they were seeking an “additional assistant coach”, which only muddied the waters further, particularly as it is unclear whether half-back Paul Deacon will retire this year and take up a coaching position or play on another 12 months.

Though Lenagan would not be drawn on the issue, sources at the club say Wane remains the front-runner to take charge in 2012 but there is unlikely to be any announcement soon.

I might apply for the job myself, I'll even contribute £1 for any possible signings.

Didn't IL say at the forum that Wigan had already had six applications for the head coaches job from existing Superleague coaches.

The advert is surely a case of "testing the water".