Former Football Association chief executive Brian Barwick has been appointed the new non-executive chairman of the Rugby Football League.

Barwick, who has taken over the responsibility from ex-Manchester United director Maurice Watkins, has revealed that he is "delighted" to have acquired the job.

"I am absolutely delighted to accept the position as the new chairman of the RFL," he said. "Rugby League is a sport I have a genuine respect and affection for and I am determined to spread the word about what a great sport rugby league is, especially at this exciting time when we host the Rugby League World Cup in England and Wales.

"The RFL is a widely-respected governing body, with an exceptionally strong management team which has produced outstanding results over the last decade and I am very much looking forward to joining the board and working with my new colleagues to take this great game forward."

Barwick was in charge of the FA when both Steven McClaren and Fabio Capello were appointed as manager of the English national team.