The 64-year-old Sheens spent a month with the Red Devils working in an advisory role earlier this year and will now return in a formal capacity.

"The club have agreed to appoint Tim Sheens as director of rugby," Koukash told a press conference at the A J Bell Stadium, which was attended by around 120 fans.

Rugby League England players pay respects to mark centenary of end of First World War 21/10/2018 AT 13:46

"I hope he will be with us in a week or so. I need Tim's help to ensure we recruit the right people to this club."

With his 12-month contract set to expire at the end of this year - and with Australia not playing a Test match until the mid-season clash against the Kiwis next year - Sheens' seven-year stint as Kangaroos coach looks to be over.

Sheens has had a historic tenure as Kangaroos coach, highlighted by Australia's dominance during their 2013 World Cup success and only Bob Fulton, with 40 Tests, has coached Australia more times. Sheens won 26 of his 31 Tests in control, although the Kangaroos have lost their past three games against the Kiwis.

Sheens began his coaching career at Penrith in 1984 , and also held roles at Canberra, North Queensland and Wests Tigers, where he last coached up to 2012.

He was appointed coach of New South Wales' State of Origin team in 1991 and succeeded Ricky Stuart as Kangaroos coach after the 2008 World Cup final defeat by New Zealand.

Rugby League Wigan stand by Zak Hardaker but tell full-back he has making up to do 19/10/2018 AT 11:10