Wayne Bennett is likely to be handed a new contract by the Rugby Football League despite presiding over Great Britain’s disastrous southern hemisphere tour.​

The veteran Australian, universally regarded as one of the all-time greatest coaches, has been employed as England coach for the past four years.​

He was tasked with leading Great Britain in their recent four-match tour of New Zealand and Papua New Guinea, which resulted in four straight defeats, and his contract with the governing body has now expired.​

Bennett came under heavy fire for his squad selection and apparent failure to differentiate between Great Britain, a once iconic brand revived after 12 years in hibernation, and England.​

Nevertheless, the 69-year-old has frequently voiced his desire to lead England into next year’s Ashes series against Australia and 2021 World Cup, both on home soil.​

Asked whether Bennett could be awarded a new deal, RFL chief executive Ralph Rimmer said: “Most certainly – we shouldn’t forget what he’s done.​

“Yes, we’ve had a poor year on the field and we’re all hurting – including the players and coaches.​