The Rugby League have given the clearest indication yet they are lining up Bulls guru Brian Noble to be the next Great Britain coach.

RFL performance director and outgoing head coach David Waite has confirmed the next national coach will be part-time and the new man could be in place within weeks.

Waite, an Australian, will hand over the coaching reins shortly but intends to carry out the groundwork for the end-of-season Tri-Nations Series.

Former Great Britain hooker Noble, an assistant to Waite in recent seasons, is the hot favourite to take over the Lions hot-seat.

"I don't see anyone in the frame that could possibly be full-time," said Waite. "I have spoken to a number of coaches. Everyone is aware that my preference all along would be to encourage a British appointment. My preference is also to build on what we've begun."

Waite, whose contract as performance director runs out at the end of the season, hinted that he has already decided on his successor but intends to complete the representative coaching team before making his choice public.

"Sometimes decisions might be made, but announcements might be a bit longer coming," he said.

Noble has publicly declared an interest in the job but has stated he will not take it on if he believes it would impact on his role with the Bulls.

Yesterday he hinted the decision lay with the Bulls board and chairman Chris Caisley.

"The board are the people that need to be pleased first and foremost. If they are comfortable that it can be done part-time and I am comfortable that it can be done part-time then I'm sure the RFL will discuss me for the appointment," said Noble. "They have got plenty of other candidates in the frame as well. It is something of a coaching challenge that I'd like to do but unless all parties are satisfied then it won't happen.

"We've got to get the Challenge Cup out of the way this weekend then I will be speaking to the people concerned, I'd imagine. But my priority for the foreseeable future is the Bulls."

l The Bulls are today mourning the loss of long-time servant Tommy Uttley, who died shortly after Friday night's victory over Wigan.

Uttley, who was 75, was a former senior referee and touch judge who worked at the club as a kit man and dressing room attendant. His son Terry was the base guitarist in hit 70s band Smokie.

A minute's silence honouring Uttley will be held before the Challenge Cup match against St Helens at Odsal on Sunday.

The Bradford Independent Supporters' Association hold their AGM tonight at The Drop Kick Tavern (7.30).

Bulls Football Manager Stuart Duffy will be on hand to answer fans' questions.