NRL: Roosters coach would love to have SBW

Sydney Roosters coach Brian Smith shed little light on whether he'd be coaching Sonny Bill Williams in 2013, but there's little doubt he'd jump at the chance. Photo / Getty Images.

Sydney Roosters coach Brian Smith shed little light on whether he'd be coaching Sonny Bill Williams in 2013, but there's little doubt he'd jump at the chance.

All Blacks star Williams, who on Monday announced he would be returning to the NRL next season following a short stint in Japanese rugby union, has been heavily linked with the Roosters.

Smith said he was none the wiser as to whether it would happen, but the prospect is enticing.

"I don't think you'll find too many coaches who wouldn't want to," Smith said.

"I've got a view about wanting to coach great players - super athletes and all that sort of stuff.

"Limited bits that I've seen of him playing in both the All Blacks and the (Super Rugby franchise) Chiefs colours he seems to be in mighty good form."

The Roosters have already signed Warriors pivot James Maloney for next year, but the addition of Williams - who walked out on Canterbury in 2008 - had the potential to turn the tri-colours into a genuine title contender.

Roosters players deny they have been talking about the dual international, but veteran fullback Anthony Minichiello - who will likely be playing his final season in 2013 - said Williams would be welcomed with open arms.

"If he does get a chance to come to the club I'd love to play with him," Minichiello said.

"He does some pretty special things on the field, he holds the ball like a tennis ball, I'd love to run off him that's for sure."

-AAP