SAINTS assistant coach Paul Wellens will remain a key will of the England rugby league set-up after changes announced today.

Denis Betts leaves his role as assistant coach, but Wayne Bennett retains Wellens (Assistant Coach) and Jamie Peacock (Team Manager).

Chris Black (Human Performance Lead) will be joining the staff.

Bennett, who recently signed a new two year deal, said: “First of all I want to thank Denis for his contribution over the last two years, he has been a great assistant coach and I appreciate all his efforts.

“We welcome Chris Black in to the staff and I’m certain his knowledge and insight will be extremely beneficial to the squad as we look ahead to the Test matches against New Zealand this year.”

Rugby Football League Rugby Director, Kevin Sinfield said: “Wayne likes to freshen up his coaching team and has consistently done this wherever he has been. Denis has done an outstanding job over the last two years and his contribution should not be underestimated.”