The New Zealand Rugby League Chief Executive, Phil Holden, is adamant Stephen Kearney could continue to coach the Kiwis, despite being forced to reapply for his job.
The head coaching role has been formally advertised by New Zealand Rugby League after Kearney's side failed to defend their World Cup title against Australia late last year.
Kearney's already indicated he'll reapply for the position and Holden insists the door's not closed for the former New Zealand international.
Holden says they always intended to re-advertise the position, regardless of the result at the World Cup.
Kearney's coached the Kiwis since 2008 and led them to the World Cup that year, before winning a Four Nations title in 2010.
