Monday 21 May 2018 15:36, UK
England defence coach Paul Gustard will become head of rugby at Harlequins after the summer tour of South Africa.
Gustard has been part of Eddie Jones' coaching staff since the end of 2015, having played for Leicester, London Irish and Saracens during his playing career.
The 42-year-old will work as part of a new-look rugby management team at the Twickenham Stoop, alongside a yet-to-be appointed general manager, after the club decided to split the traditional director of rugby role.
Gustard, who was also an assistant coach at Saracens, said: "Opportunities like this don't come along very often.
"To be given the chance to lead a club as rich in talent, heritage and support as Harlequins is hugely exciting.
"I am a proud Englishman and it has been a privilege to represent my country and work under Eddie. There have been some incredible memories which I will cherish, and I will look back proudly on my contribution with England. I am desperate for England to do well as we push on to World Cup glory next year.
"My relationship with Eddie is strong and positive. He has supported me in accepting this new role and I will continue to have a strong relationship with him on our tour to South Africa and beyond. He was the first to give me an opportunity in 2008 and again in 2016 when he recruited me for England. I will always be thankful to him.
"However, I am now ready to lead a team and I am thrilled to have this chance at one of the Premiership's biggest clubs. I just couldn't turn this opportunity down. It is incredibly exciting to be part of the next chapter at Quins.
"I would like to thank the RFU and Eddie personally for their support and for allowing me to leave early to take up this fantastic opportunity with Harlequins."
