November.

Joe Schmidt has confirmed he will make a decision on his future as Ireland head coach by the end of November after having a discussion with his wife and children.

The Ireland boss has a huge month ahead of him, with a Test against Italy in Chicago earlier today, before Argentina, USA and world champions the All Blacks come to Dublin.

Schmidt’s current contract expires following the conclusion of the 2019 Rugby World Cup, and the Kiwi says no matter what – a decision will be made on his future by the end of the month.

“I’ve spoken to Kellie [his wife], even the kids, talking to Tim [his son] last night, just trying to make a decision that is the right one for all of us really.” Schmidt told The42

“By the end of November I will [make his decision]. I think it’s one of those things where you’ve just got to sit down and make a decision. You can’t let it linger, for two reasons really.”

“One, if I’m staying I want the clarity going forward and if I’m not staying I want the clarity for the IRFU because I think half the job is what gets done under your watch, the other half of the job is how you leave it so that somebody else can pick it up.

“And so I want nice clarity either way.”

Ireland captain Rory Best has also previously admitted he will make a decision on his international future by the end of November, so we’ll have a clear picture on the future of Irish Rugby from a coach and captain point of view by the end of the month.