Kear joined Wakefield in July 2006 following his dismissal by Hull FC

Wakefield Trinity Wildcats have ended speculation that coach John Kear might leave to join Catalans Dragons.

Kear, 55, had talks with the Dragons after being earmarked to replace Kevin Walters when he leaves in October.

But Catalans' reluctance to offer any compensation has proved a stumbling block - and the French side have now withdrawn their interest.

Wakefield chief executive James Elston said: "John is contracted to the Wildcats until the end of next season."

In a statement, Wakefield claimed that Kear had "not made any decision regarding his personal future and that process would not have started until the two clubs agreed his potential release".

Chief executive James Elston added: "John has been a key component of our club since he joined us during 2006."

I was flattered to be identified by Catalans Dragons and interested to hear of their plans for the future Wakefield coach John Kear

Kear will instead remain with Wakefield, where his main task will be to help them win another Super League licence next year.

"I was flattered to be identified by Catalans Dragons and interested to hear of their plans for the future," he said.

"However, more than four years of my life have been invested in the Wildcats' progression.

"We have already launched our recruitment programme for the 2011 season and are looking forward to providing a solid rugby base for the club's RFL licence application to complement the progress being made with the plans for a new stadium."

The Dragons will now resume their search for a new coach.

Australian Trent Robinson, currently on the staff at Sydney Roosters, is now expected to become their number one choice.

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