Kelly, 53, who has worked as a coach for the Rugby Football League based in the north east for the last four years, will take up his new position with the Giants in early February.

"I am very excited about this opportunity with the Huddersfield Giants having watched them become one of the top five clubs in Super League," Kelly said.

Kelly coached Wakefield from 1997-2000 and also had spells at Gateshead, Featherstone and Dewsbury in addition to coaching Ireland for 11 years up to 2011.

Huddersfield managing director Richard Thewlis said: "Andy has built up an incredibly-impressive CV.

"His experience with the RFL in the north east and the outcomes of his work over the past few years are outstanding.

"He now comes into a more traditional heartland environment for elite rugby league and there is no doubt that he will do a superb job for our club and those youngsters who will be mentored by him over time."