Back in business.

Former Ireland boss Joe Schmidt looks set for a temporary return to coaching next week with one of his former clubs.

French newspaper La Montagne are reporting that Schmidt will spend two weeks leading technical coaching sessions at Clermont, where he spent three years as assistant coach from 2007 to 2010 before taking the head coach role at Leinster.

Schmidt enjoyed some success at the French side, helping them to the Top 14 title in 2010 and will join them at the request of head coach Franck Azema.

The temporary role suits the New Zealander perfectly with Schmidt previously stating he doesn’t plan on returning to full-time coaching until next season at the very earliest as he looks to take a break and spend some much needed time with his family.

He was linked with a move to the Premiership earlier this week with Bath but the west country club poured cold water on the reports. A move back to New Zealand looks more likely providing a Super Rugby job becomes available next season.

Scott Robertston has constantly been linked with a move to Europe since being snubbed by the All Blacks so perhaps Schmidt could be a candidate for the Crusaders in 2021. No doubt that role would suit him down to the ground.

Either way, expect Schmidt back in coaching next year.