Legendary mentor Wayne Bennett has been announced as coach of the English national side and will lead them into the Four Nations at the end of 2016 and at the World Cup in 2017.

Bennett has previously coached Australia (twice) and was assistant to Stephen Kearney when the Kiwis won the World Cup in 2008.

“I am very excited by the challenge of taking England on to the next level,” Bennett said.

“From what I have seen I have been impressed by the ambition and energy demonstrated by the team and I look forward to working with a group of players that I believe have what it takes to succeed on the international stage.”

Bennett replaces Steve McNamara who just oversaw England defeat New Zealand in a home series 2-1.