He stepped down in 2015 and since then the former New Zealand Maori winger has been content to play short bursts for Lake Macquarie when his body allowed.

That was until he received a call from Marlon Solofuti with an opportunity to help coach the Roos in 2020.

The pair takes over from Gareth Palamo, who took the Roos from the wooden spoon to the finals last year. He will remain involved.

Pedersen scored five tries in a 73-33 romp over University in his return match in round three and was constant try-scoring threat.

However, an on-going foot problem will prevent him from playing this season. A personal trainer, Pedersen will look after the strength and conditioning and oversee the backs.

Solofuti, a tough-as-nails No.8, will continue to play and run the forwards.

"I was thinking about giving it away for a year, but when Marlon contacted me to say he was on board, I thought I'd help him out," Pedersen said. "I need an operation on my foot, so at this stage I'll do the fitness training and coach the backs. At the moment, whenever I sprint the foot flares up."

Dylan Heins, Ray Alo (University), Jarrod Nyssen (Toowoomba) and Nick Benn (Parramatta) have departed but Pedersen is confident they will have the talent to be a force.

"Marlon has experience, having played professionally in France, and is still playing well," Pedersen said. "He will lead from the front, which the club needs. There were rumours that everyone was leaving, but that is not the case. I am starting to touch base with a few people as well."

Brendan Holliday, Barcelona Lupematasila, Kirisome Laulala, Mika Ioapo. Jordy Leota and Junior Osasa are back.

"We could have won the comp last season if we had more players who were able to train properly," Pedersen said. "We will see what happens this year. If Marlon and I set the example, then hopefully everyone follows suit."

READ MORE: TEENAGE DUO MAKE THE GRADE AT ROOS