Phil Veivers' rugby league credentials are impeccable.

The Bulls' assistant coach can boast a brother who captained Australia and a father who represented Queensland, not to mention the 13 stellar seasons he spent as a player at St Helens himself.

And if he's ever looking for a spot of coaching advice, Veivers, pictured, can put in a quick call to his brother-in-law - Brisbane Broncos coach Wayne Bennett.

Veivers is 12 months into a two-year deal at the Bulls and his coaching career is firmly on track.

"It's taken a while to get into the system but now I'm in I am thoroughly enjoying it," he said.

"When I started coaching I wanted to do a five-year apprenticeship. I feel at this moment in time, even though I'm coming into my fifth year, only two of those years have been what I'd called an apprenticeship under coaches who I rate. So I still think I've got a couple more years to do on my apprenticeship, but then obviously it is my ambition to progress."

Veivers isn't concerned about whether his big break comes in Britain or Australia. The Brisbane-born 39-year-old has lived in Britain for the last 19 years, his children are settled here and would be more than happy to stay.

But he does have a "foot in the door in the Australian camp" through his relationship with Bennett, who he speaks to on a weekly basis.

It seems to be just a matter of time until Veivers shakes off his assistant tag.

"I think I'm on target. I used to sit down and set goals for myself as a player and I still do the same now as a coach. It's all attainable."