Bath Rugby target Sam Burgess is "a fantastic physical specimen" who has "all the attributes" to be a success in rugby union.
That is the view of England rugby league head coach Steve McNamara, who gave Burgess his Super League debut at Bradford Bulls and worked with the 25-year-old during the 2013 World Cup.
"He was pretty sensational for us at the end of last season," said McNamara, who was himself linked with a move to Bath Rugby's coaching staff in December before taking up an assistant coach role with the Roosters in Sydney.
"Sam is the jewel in the crown of rugby league at the minute. Hopefully, he'll stay in rugby league and continue to be part of the Souths and England rugby league team.
"But I am sure, if he did decide to change sports, he would be a success.
"I just think he's a fantastic physical specimen. He's got great skills, is quick for a big man - he's got all the attributes to be probably whatever he wants to be."
McNamara told Sky Sports he had not heard directly from Burgess - who is contracted with the South Sydney Rabbitohs until 2016 - about the switch speculation.
"He's not talked directly about his plans," said McNamara. "We speak a fair bit about various different things.
"He was very young at Bradford, going through some pretty tough times with his father's illness and learning to be a Super League player, and we are very close in terms of that.
"Sam will speak to me at the right time I am sure."
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
