WORKINGTON Town's new boss has spoken out for the first time in his new role, saying he 'is looking forward' to getting started.

Former League One Coach of the Year Anthony Murray will take over as the new head coach at Workington Town RLFC for next year.

Murray, who has previously played at the club, has been coaching League One team North Wales Crusaders since 2014. He won coach of the year last year has been nominated again once again this year.

"The opportunity came up to coach a real well-established rugby league team in Workington – it's a club that is full of history and tradition and they have been really successful over the last few seasons so this is something that I really wanted to get involved with", he said.

Murray played at Town in 2003, as well as doing coaching stints at Millom and Barrow over the years, and says Cumbria is a place he has become very fond of.

He said: "I'm looking forward to getting started, to try and rebuild something and to see where that leads. It's a fantastic place to play and coach rugby up here in Cumbria.

"I've always been fond of the area and I'm just looking forward to getting back up there, getting back into it and hopefully trying to build a competitive team."

The new coach said Town's strong fan base is something which has really attracted him to the club.

"They have always had a really fantastic following and been really passionate about their rugby," he said.

"Obviously when the club went through its difficulties the fans and everybody rallied round to try and do what they could for the club, and that's what really appealed to me.

"I think that's what is needed and I am really looking forward to getting to know the fans and hopefully have a really good season in League One."

The new coach said his aim to 'rebuild' in the next year and create a 'competitive team' for next season.

He said: "Moving forward, first and foremost the aim is to try and build the team again and hopefully get a few good wins in League One."