Monday 1 February 2016 13:26, UK
Wayne Bennett says his appointment as England coach could be finalised before he arrives in the country next month.
Australian rugby league's most successful coach is understood to be on the verge of replacing Steve McNamara, whose contract was up after last autumn's series win over New Zealand.
If a deal is done Bennett will combine the role with his job as Brisbane Broncos boss, and he brings the NRL side to England in February for a World Club Series game at Wigan.
"It may be before then," the 66-year-old told the Brisbane Courier Mail. "If someone picks up the phone in the next week, the next couple of days. I have to find out what I want to do and how they see me involved.
"I've told the Broncos what I'm doing and the people who matter are across it - they are totally supportive of it, as they were of me when I applied for the Australian coaching job.
"I could do the Australian job without impinging on what I was doing with the Broncos. It is the absolute priority for me."
Bennett, who has won seven Grand Finals and also coached Australia, revealed he was first approached about the England job five years ago.
"It was always about finding the right timing," he said. "We haven't finalised the role. I've been offered some opportunities."
