Denis Betts appointed England assistant head coach

Betts was on Thursday named as number two to new England head coach Wayne Bennett, who succeeded Steve McNamara in February.

Former England and Great Britain international Betts took over as Widnes head coach in 2010 and has since guided the club back into Super League.

Betts has now been given the opportunity to work under the vastly experienced Bennett for the Four Nations this year and next year's Rugby League World Cup.

"I am delighted that Wayne has asked me to be assistant coach for the national team. Wayne is an iconic figure in the game and to work with and learn from someone with his experience is an opportunity I am relishing," said Betts.

"There are some incredibly talented players in and around the England squad and I am confident that they will be able to do their country proud in this year's Four Nations and at the World Cup next year.

"I am excited to be given the opportunity to work with them and I am looking forward to meeting up with all of the selected players in October."