IT could be the best of both worlds if Fijian rugby flair and French expertise align for Franck Azéma to be considered as the new head coach of the FIJI Water Flying Fijians.
The former head coach of the French Top 14 club USA Perpignan has been cited by French media as the likely candidate to succeed Mick Byrne.
Azéma is no stranger to Fijian rugby having played a role in the tenures of players such as Napolioni Nalaga, Peceli Yato, Noa Nakaitaci, Alivereti Raka, Apisai Naqalevu, Kini Murimurivalu, Albert Vulivuli, Seremaia Bai, Jiuta Wainiqolo, Eroni Sau, Watisoni Votu and Tevita Cavubati when he coached Perpignan, RC Toulon and ASM Clermont Auvergne.
He had also expressed an interest for Fiji head coach in 2019 but missed out.
The former centre turned coach’s name was reported by French sports media outlet Midi Olympique late last year and as recently as last month.
Meanwhile, Fiji Rugby Union chairman John Sanday said the reports were only speculations and affirmed interim head coach Senirusi Seruvakula’s place in the role.
“Well, that’s all speculation. As far as I know, we’ve handed Senirusi Seruvakula the job and that’s all I know,” Sanday told Times Sport.
Seruvakula was announced as the interim head coach last Wednesday in a virtual media announcement in Nadi.
Rugby House said Byrne’s exit occurred “following discussions about the future direction of the Flying Fijians program”.
Meanwhile, Sanday added Seruvakula will coach the Flying Fijians into the Nations Championship in July when Fiji’s home matches will be played in the UK, after which he will be evaluated.
“I cannot be as more clearer than that,” he said.
Seruvakula’s interim appointment compelled the Suva Rugby Union to publicly express its support for his appointment in the role permanently instead of being an “eligible local” and ultimately sidelined for an expatriate instead.
