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Saint-Andre in running to take over France

17/10/2007

PHILIPPE Saint-Andre has admitted it would be difficult to say ‘non’ should France come calling.

Sharks’ director of rugby is one of an elite few to be shortlisted as a possible successor to France coach Bernard Laporte, who is stepping down after the World Cup.

Saint-Andre’s contract with Sharks, which does not expire until 2010, contains a clause that would allow him to leave to lead an international team.

He explained: "It is in my contract that if I am offered the French job I can be available for my country.

"When you coach at a high level you want to continue to coach at a high level but if you have the opportunity to coach your country it would be difficult to say no.

"But at the moment that isn’t the case."

Talk of former French captain Saint-Andre leaving Sharks to lead his rugby-loving country have been circulating for more than a year.

"I have said this for a long, long time. First it is not my choice and second I am very focussed with Sale," added the former international winger. I am happy with Sale".

"Apparently there is a shortlist of three or four people and I am on this shortlist but it will be the decision of the French rugby president [Bernard Lapasset] and I think he will make his decision on November 1.

"At the moment it is a lot of gossip for not a lot.

"It will be the decision of Lapasset with the board.

"I am happy here so I will be very pleased to keep going until 2010.

"I have spoken with Brian [Kennedy, Sharks owner] and the club. They know it will be difficult to turn down the French job if I have the opportunity to coach my country."

Saint-Andre was asked to take on the same role for Italy, in May, but turned down the offer.

"I had the offer of a four year deal from Italy but I didn’t go because I was pleased here.

"I enjoy my rugby and I think the club has grown up a lot. We are getting better and better so I didn't accept.

"If I have the opportunity to coach France it will be difficult for me to say no but at the moment they haven’t offered it to me!"

In just two weeks Saint-Andre, who led Sharks to a historic championship victory and lured big stars to Stockport, could face a very personal club versus country debate.

INSIDE Saint-Andre (pictured) discusses the Sharks’ players hoping to conquer the world with England.