McCormack took Whitehaven to Grand Finals in 2004 and 2005

Gateshead Thunder have named ex-Salford and Widnes boss Steve McCormack as head coach, with Chris Hood returning to his former role as assistant coach.

McCormack, who coached Scotland at the 2008 World Cup, is looking forward to the challenge, starting with Saturday's Challenge Cup tie against Oldham.

"When [club owner] Steve Garside approached me, it didn't take long to make my mind up," he said.

"I can't wait to meet the players and staff and get on with the job."

McCormack inherits a side that lies eighth in the Championship table, has won two and drawn one of their seven league games and are in the Challenge Cup fifth round.

And the coach, who has also managed Whitehaven, is keen to work with the squad that Hood has assembled, as well as the existing backroom staff.

"I have seen a lot of the players playing before. Team captain Andrew Henderson was with me at Salford and also at Scotland at the recent World Cup in Australia," said McCormack.

"I was keen to bring (Thunder scrum-half) Luke Branighan to Whitehaven when I was there and my teams have played against a lot of the current Thunder players in Northern Rail Cup matches. There is a good platform to build on.

"I have spoken with Chris Hood in detail and I am looking forward to working with him. This is a really big opportunity."

606: DEBATE Give your reaction to the appointment of Steve McCormack

Hood himself has reiterated his desire to remain with the club and offer his support to the incoming coach.

"I recognise and respect the experience that Steve McCormack has," said Hood.

"We have spoken in detail and I am very keen to work with him to build on the start that we have had to the season so far.

"The most important thing is a successful Thunder. I will give my all to Steve as his assistant."

Coaches Alan Dickinson and Steve Rutherford will also remain with the club's backroom team.

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