A report in today's Midi Olimpique suggests that the RFU will attempt to pry Joe Schmidt away from Ireland after the Rugby World Cup.

Schmidt, who is contracted with the IRFU until 2017, has emerged as the preferred choice to succeed Stuart Lancaster as England head coach.

Lancaster is almost certain to vacate the position after a dismal Rugby World Cup which saw the hosts fail to reach the knockout stage.

The media outlet states that while Jake White and Japan boss Eddie Jones are interested in the post, Schmidt is the man at the top of the RFU's list.

They suggest that a move across the Irish Sea would represent a step up for the Kiwi.

Speaking during his Ireland team announcement this afternoon, Schmidt dismissed the speculation: “I don’t know where that’s come from at all. Externally, I’d be a fan of Stuart Lancaster, as a person and what he’s trying to build.

“I think if we’d lost last weekend, it could be someone else being propositioned for my job. Stuart is a first-class character, I enjoy chatting with him pre- and post-matches. I certainly won’t be going after his job."

Schmidt's star has been on the rise since his days as assistant coach to Vern Cotter at Clermont Auvergne.

Two Heineken Cup titles with Leinster and back-to-back Six Nations titles, have made the New Zealand one of the most sought-after coaches in world rugby.

He is hotly tipped to lead the British and Irish Lions in their tour of New Zealand in 2017 or replace Steve Hansen when he vacates the All Blacks hotseat.

(Midi Olimpique)

Online Editors