Wakefield Trinity Wildcats have appointed Brian Smith as the club's new head coach.

The 61-year-old Australian replaces James Webster, who departed Belle Vue last month following a poor start to the season.

Wakefield currently sit at the bottom of the Super League table after 12 consecutive defeats.

Smith's former clubs include Bradford Bulls, Hull FC, Sydney Roosters and St George Dragons.

"I would just like to thank all of those who applied for the job. There were some outstanding candidates. However, as soon as I talked to Brian, I felt that he was the man for the job," chairman Michael Carter told Wakefield's official website.

"He was Coach of the Year in 2010 and has taken numerous teams to NRL Grand Finals. His pedigree is unquestioned and I look forward to him taking this club forward and turning our fortunes around."

Interim head coach Stuart Dickens is due to remain in charge of the team until June 8.