4 Possible Candidates to Replace Paul Gustard as Harlequins boss

The 44-year-old joined Quins in the summer of 2018, having previously been England's defence coach, and has departed 'to enable him to pursue other opportunities', a club statement said.

Here we look at four possible candidates to replace Paul Gustard.

After being forced out of Tigers, the former England hooker has established himself as a top coach once again with Edinburgh in the PRO14 despite having a lack of resources. A move back to the Premiership with Quins, who have an exciting young squad, could make sense. The 50-year-old is under contract until 2023, so if Quins want him it will cost them decent money.

The early favourite. Following England’s Rugby World Cup failure, Lancaster has re-established himself as a top coach since joining Leinster. The 51-year-old seemed to be in the running for any and every job in both hemispheres before the Irish side offered him the role as senior coach. His philosophy and work ethic may match up well with Harlequins.

With Quins' relationship with New Zealand rugby, we thought it would be interesting to throw a Kiwi in the mix. Robertson became the first "rookie" Super Rugby coach during his time with the Crusaders to win three successive titles in their first three seasons as a head coach. The 46-year-old, who was reportedly the clubs second choice when they appointed Gustard in 2018, would be the most exciting appointment from our shortlist.

Every 'next boss' list needs a club legend on it. The former England and Quins number eight has been developing into a fine young coach, and is doing a stellar job alongside Dean Richards up at Newcastle Falcons. He'd definitely sort out their awful defence. They could do far worse.