Ex-England international: Why nobody wants 'poisoned' All Blacks job

In a column for The Times, Kay said their rejection to what should be one of the “most sought-after jobs” indicates the unappealing challenge of the role.

“There are parallels between Steve Hansen’s departure from the All Blacks after 15 years as an assistant and head coach and the time Sir Alex Ferguson left Manchester United. Taking over from Hansen after more than a decade of unparalleled All Blacks dominance is a poisoned chalice,” Kay, who played for the British and Irish Lions in 2005, wrote.

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“The squad Ferguson left behind at Old Trafford was nowhere near as strong as it had been and things began to spiral as successive managers tried and failed to rebuild the team. The same challenge awaits Hansen’s successor. New Zealand are still a fine team but they are not as strong as they were four years ago.”

Kay added that Joseph and Brown opting to remain in Japan suggested the pair know the opportunity to coach the All Blacks may present itself again and at a “more appealing time”.

Questioning Foster’s ability to evolve, Kay said the All Blacks could benefit more from Robertson’s unorthodox approach should he be appointed as the new head coach.

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