England boss Clive Woodward has recruited rugby league legend Ellery Hanley to help plot the downfall of Australia, Argentina and South Africa this autumn.

Hanley, who has been part of the Bristol coaching set-up since May, isset to join forces with another top ex-league coach - England's current defensive supremo Phil Larder.

"Ellery has a superb pedigree as a player in rugby league, and he is enjoying his role at Bristol coaching rugby union," Woodward said.

"He will be with us on an informal basis, but it gives him the opportunity of working with all the England coaches, which will benefit Ellery in his development and England.

"I will review his contribution as a coach before deciding to what degree and level within the representative structure he could potentially work."

Hanley walked out on the 13-man code earlier this year following an acrimonious end to his St Helens reign.

But Woodward, whose squad are currently assembling for training each Monday in the build-up to facing world champions Australia on November 18, has been impressed with his work at Bristol.

"It is going to be a massive challenge for me to coach the best rugby union players in the country," Hanley said.

"The experience I have gained at international level, coaching rugby league, and the part-time work I've been doing at Bristol should prove to be of significant benefit to me, and hopefully the players.

"I know that Clive is keeping an open mind on my future involvement, and obviously, I will be doing everything I can to ensure that my contribution is a positive and productive one for the squad."

Wednesday's announcement comes less than 24 hours after league superstar Jason Robinson formally rejoined the union ranks with Sale, while his fellow Super League giants Apollo Perelini and Fereti Tuilagi are also preparing for 15-a-side careers.