Bobbie Goulding's contract as France coach not renewed

Image caption, Goulding won 17 caps for Great Britain

France are looking for a new coach after announcing they will not renew Bobbie Goulding's contract.

The former St Helens and Great Britain scrum-half leaves after almost three years in charge.

His last game was a 34-16 victory over Ireland in Limerick, which helped win the European Championship.

French Rugby League Federation president Nicolas Larrat said: "To develop over the next two years, we have decided to choose another coach."

Goulding, a in February 2009, was in the wake of France's defeat by England Knights last month.

Larrat added: "There were certainly a lot of positives during the three years of Bobbie Goulding's tenure. The France team has found a true team spirit.

"With Bobbie Goulding, a milestone was reached and the French rugby league should be grateful."

France hope to appoint Goulding's replacement in the new year, ahead of the 2013 World Cup.