Target acquired.

Current Ireland defence coach Andy Farrell will make the big step up and take over as head coach after the Rugby World Cup in Japan with current boss Joe Schmidt set to depart after rugby’s showpiece event later this year.

But while the the rest of the current coaching ticket will be staying on alongside Farrell – the former Saracens player will need to recruit someone to replace Schmidt who is responsible for Ireland’s attack along with his head coach duties.

And according to The Rugby Paper – that man could be Former England outhalf Alex King who worked alongside Schmidt during his time at Clermont. The 44-year-old is currently assistant coach at Montpellier and has also had stints with Wasps and Northampton – and more importantly Wales, showing he can cut it on the international scene.

King has also worked with the Barbarians and is highly regarded on the coaching circuit. There’s no doubt Farrell will look to bring someone in – and King could very well be an excellent candidate for the job.