Seven years after knocking back the role, Ewen McKenzie says he's ready to take up the Wallabies reins - but doesn't believe he's placed extra pressure on incumbent coach Robbie Deans.
McKenzie was quick to hose down "conspiracy theories" after confirming he would step down as Queensland Reds director of coaching at the end of this year's Super Rugby season.
Besides claiming his announcement had "nothing to do with Robbie", McKenzie also brushed aside speculation that he had the Ireland job in his sights but did concede he would look overseas if the Wallabies option fell through.
McKenzie was offered the Wallabies position in 2006 following Eddie Jones' dumping but did not feel he was ready.
And when McKenzie did apply after John Connolly stepped down following the 2007 World Cup, the Wallabies reins were handed to Deans.
Deans is off contract at the end of the year.
McKenzie says the ARU runs the Wallabies, it's got nothing to do with Robbie.
