Tim Sheens is open to a long-term stay in Super League with Salford as he waits to discover his fate as Australia national coach.

The 64-year-old flew in to England on Tuesday to take up a short-term contract with the Red Devils as their first director of rugby and on Thursday held his first press conference in his new role.

Sheens technically remains in charge of the Kangaroos but they do not have another game until next May and he is expected to make way for the appointment of Mal Meninga.

Sheens told journalists no decision on his future is expected until November, but he missed his first State of Origin game in his seven years as Australia coach on Wednesday and instead watched the match, which is traditionally seen as a Test trial, on satellite television.

“That’s an invited position. I’ve had seven one-year contracts,” Sheens said.

“If I’m invited again, then that’s something to consider, although at the moment they’re looking at maybe a full-time role and a contracted role into the next World Cup at least.

“I’ve been part of the review over there and that’s still something that’s happening. Normally the positions come up around November. There will be no decision made before the end of the year.”

Sheens spent a month in an advisory capacity with Salford at the invitation of owner Marwan Koukash earlier in the year but is now on the pay roll, with head coach Iestyn Harris still officially on sick leave.

“My earlier role was just to support the coaching staff, this is more one that encompasses recruitment and overall planning for the football club, everything from staffing to recruitment of players and how the place is managed.

“It’s still early days and we’re still drafting what exactly the role will be.”

Sheens admits he is already actively seeking overseas players for Salford for next season.

Kangaroos forward and New South Wales captain Paul Gallen has been linked with a move to Salford for 2017.

“I’ve been into the managers in Sydney and seen lists of players, not only the official ones of those off contract, but there’s always an unofficial one of who they will release,” Sheens said.

“So there are a number of players to look at.”