Giants join search for new coach as Brown departs

Rumours have been rife the colourful Australian would head home early but, fearing such speculation was damaging jittery Huddersfield's form, the club yesterday decided to confirm his departure.

However, despite being linked to Cronulla and South Sydney, the former St George Ilawarra chief insists he has no NRL job earmarked and it is merely "family reasons" dictating his return.

Reigning Super League coach of the year Brown, 36, will join

St Helens' Mick Potter hunting for a new position in Australia while Bradford Bulls are also in the market for a coach with Steve McNamara taking over England full-time in October.

"This decision is not about my professional life – it's about my family's life," he said.

"To say I have enjoyed my time here is an understatement but I just have to make this decision now for the benefit of everyone.

"The continued and relentless media speculation has been good for no one."

During his debut campaign last season, Brown guided Huddersfield to Wembley for the first time in 47 years and also third position in the league, their finest finish since 1962.

They currently lie fourth but have suffered heavy consecutive defeats, against Wigan and a

60-4 Challenge Cup humiliation by Warrington on Saturday.

Warrington, who beat them in last year's final, have also recently announced the capture of Giants captain Brett Hodgson for next season to add to the levels of disruption at the Galpharm.

However, Brown maintains he is ready to push Huddersfield – who entertain table-toppers Wigan on Sunday – towards their first Grand Final.

Chairman Ken Davy added: "This has been an unsettling period for all concerned but now the uncertainty is cleared up, we can all knuckle down to the immediate job which is bringing success to Huddersfield.

"I know Nathan will do all he can to ensure that he goes out on a high."

Assistant Paul Anderson, who signed a new two-year deal only last week, is favourite to succeed Brown.