McNamara has made a big impression at Odsal

McNamara, 35, has signed a two-year contact that will take him up to end of next year's World Cup in Australia.

His first Lions assignment will be this summer's Test against France at Headingley on 22 June.

"Steve is one of the most intelligent and talented coaches around and I'm sure he will have much to offer the international set-up," said Smith.

McNamara has made a positive impression since taking over the Bulls last year, with his side currently joint top of the engage Super League, alongside Smith's Leeds.

McNamara first moved into coaching under Smith at Huddersfield before leaving to join former Britain boss Brian Noble's set-up at Bradford.

He was strongly linked with the head coaching position at hometown Hull last year but took the reins at Odsal when Noble defected to Wigan.

606: DEBATE McNamara's appointment is a step in the right direction HF

McNamara was chosen for the Lions post ahead of Huddersfield's Jon Sharp, who undertook the assistant's role under Noble.

The former Bradford, Huddersfield and Wakefield loose forward said: "I'm delighted to be appointed assistant coach and can't wait to get started.

"Having played for Great Britain on a few occasions I know what an honour it is to pull on the jersey. To be involved in the build-up to the World Cup will be brilliant.

"Bradford fans can rest assured that I remain 100% committed to the Bulls and will be taking up this role part-time under a full-time coach."