Powell won 33 caps for Great Britain during his playing career

Powell was expected to return as Rhinos head coach in 2006 after standing down in 2003 to make way for Tony Smith.

But Powell will now act as assistant to Tykes director of rugby Phil Davies and take responsibility for offensive coaching and team management duties.

"I'm excited about the opportunity and helping the players improve their core attacking skills," said Powell.

The move is expected to mean Smith, who coached the Rhinos to their first league title in 32 years last season, will stay on for the foreseeable future with the club saying the situation is under review.

"Phil Davies approached me recently about the possibility of joining the coaching team and it is a great opportunity to expand my coaching skills," added Powell.

Daryl's enthusiasm to work on our attacking game is great to see Leeds Tykes director of rugby Phil Davies

"The Tykes have achieved a great deal in their four seasons in the Premiership but there is an acceptance that they want to move onto the next level.

"This is a new chapter for my coaching career and one I am extremely looking forward to."

Callard appointed to RFU academy

The Tykes have also taken on the Rhinos' Simon Middleton, who will take over a number of Jon Callard's former duties after his move to the RFU Academy.

"I am really excited to get Daryl involved with our squad and have his input into the future development of the club," said Davies.

"Daryl has been there and done it all as a player and a coach in rugby league and his enthusiasm to get to work on our attacking game is great to see.