Wayne Bennett set for England job

Wayne Bennett is set to be named as the new coach of England and Steve McNamara dumped, according to reports in Australia.

McNamara’s contract finished after the series against New Zealand. Bennett, who coaches the Brisbane Broncos, recently missed out on the Kangaroos head coaching position that went to Mal Meninga.

Bennett was understood to be disappointed on missing out on the Australia job and is keen to lead another nation at next year’s World Cup.

The 66-year old is regarded as one of the greatest coaches in rugby league history after time in charge of Queensland and the Kangaroos, and winning NRL grand finals with the Broncos and Dragons.

He also assisted Stephen Kearney in 2008 when New Zealand won the World Cup.

According to reports, Bennett will be appointed to the England job next month.

The Brisbane boss said in December he would consider coaching a rival nation to Australia.

“Yes I would. I love the game and if I can help develop it in any way I will,” he told reporters.

“The reality is time is running out for me. But if something was to come up here I would be happy to help in any way I can. I love rugby league and that is why I helped out New Zealand in 2008.

“And I thought the 2013 World Cup was a great event in England and I would have loved to be a part of that.”