Hull appoint Sharp as new coach in place of Kear

Hull have named the Australian, Peter Sharp, as their new coach in succession to John Kear.

Kear left the KC Stadium last week after being told his contract would not be renewed at the end of the season and, after being turned down by Bradford's Steve McNamara, Hull have gone for the experienced Sharp. Currently assistant at Parramatta in Australia, he has worked in a similar capacity at Newcastle and Melbourne, as well as having a stint as head coach at Manly.

The Hull captain, Kiwi Richard Swain, who played under Sharp at Melbourne, described him as "a great tactician, who will gain the utmost respect from the players".

Sharp, who has agreed a two-and-a-half year contract, is expected to arrive within the next two weeks, subject to obtaining a work permit.