Force chasing Foley

The Western Force, determined to end a run of dismal seasons in Super Rugby, are looking to poach a coach from fellow Australian side, the Waratahs.

According to weekend media reports a player-driven move is afoot to lure Waratahs coach Michael Foley to Perth.

And the spin-off could see Wallaby captain David Pocock stay with the Force.

The Sunday Telegraph reports that Foley, who has strongly stated his intention to remain at the Waratahs, has not made any decision to leave as yet.

It's understood Force internationals Matt Hodgson and Ben McCalman have led the push for Foley, while Pocock is also an admirer of the Waratahs coach who is under pressure to retain his job in Sydney.

Some have suggested that if Foley were to join the Force, Pocock would be inclined to remain at the club.

Pocock's retention is crucial to the future hopes of the Force, who are Australia's worst-performing franchise and have struggled to attract big-name players for 2013.

The Force had chased former Stade Francais coach Michael Cheika, but he rejected their offer last week, leaving the club in a vulnerable position considering they had told other candidates they were no longer being considered.

The Force then made Foley the offer, which has the strong enticement of a guaranteed three years.

Foley led the Waratahs to their worst-ever season, with the team losing their final eight games in a row.

However, two weeks before the end of the campaign he was endorsed by the club's board to continue as head coach for next year.

Foley wasn't available for comment, but 10 days ago he stated he would be at the Waratahs next year.

"At this stage, I'm here next year it's been a difficult year for everybody," Foley said. "For me to be talking about walking, or not being with the team now, would be, as far as I'm concerned, a cop out."

Asked what he meant by at this stage, Foley replied: "I'll be clear, if there was any confusion, I will be here next year."