Noble says he will quit Crusaders

Crusaders coach Brian Noble has confirmed he is to step down after just one season in charge of the Welsh club.

The future of the former Bradford, Wigan and Great Britain boss has been the subject of speculation since Crusaders' Engage Super League season ended eight weeks ago. Noble, 49, has been linked with the post of assistant coach at Australian club Penrith Panthers while his number two Iestyn Harris is expected to take over at Crusaders.

Noble said: "I won't be going around with the Crusaders [next season]."

The news is another blow for the Wrexham-based Crusaders, albeit one that was not unexpected.

The club face a winding-up order at the High Court next Wednesday and are also the subject of legal action from the players' union over missing pension payments to players.

Noble believes many of the problems date back prior to the club's takeover and relocation from Bridgend to Wrexham last year.

Noble said: "They've got their own challenge on at the moment. I know they inherited a difficult situation and I know that behind the scenes it got more difficult through no fault of their own.

"They've done brilliantly well to fend off all they have so far and they should be given all the help to get through. I'm confident they will go round again next year. My heart is there and, if I'm back doing nothing, I'll go round and look after them if I can. I wish them the best for sure."

Noble moved to Wales last year after Wigan decided not to renew his contract and helped rebuild the squad after their dismal first season in Super League in 2009 and under his guidance they qualified for the play-offs for the first time and improved their crowd figures.

The club have not officially confirmed Noble's departure but Harris has been groomed as a potential successor.