Morrison fully focused on Rams’ season opener

Morrison, along with Stephen Kearney, David Kidwell and Richie Blackmore are on a four-man shortlist to take charge of the Kiwis.

Morrison will undergo his interview process via a live video link early next week but his main priority is preparing the Rams to take on Featherstone Rovers the following Sunday.

Morrison said: “The call came out of the blue that I was on the shortlist and I’d be silly not to go through with the interview process having got this far.

“There are some pretty big Kiwi figures on the list but it is a big thing to have got this far.

“My main focus is on making sure Dewsbury Rams are ready for next week.

“We have a good squad and we are in a good position with a week to go until the start of the season.

“We have to be ready for Featherstone, who will be very strong and had a good win over Hull FC last week.”

News that Morrison had been shortlisted for the New Zealand job was covered in several publications across the world and the Rams boss believes the publicity has been good for the club.

“Whatever happens with my interview, it has been great to get Dewsbury Rams mentioned in rugby league papers around the world.

“It has been massive for the club and shows that we are going in the right direction.”

Morrison will turn his immediate attentions to tomorrow’s final pre-season game at home to Castleford Tigers (ko 7.30pm).

Morrison said he would be fielding a strong squad against the Tigers but is also keen to have another look at several fringe players.