Gloucester Continue Re-Shuffle

Further to this week’s departure of Director of Rugby Nigel Davies, it has now been revealed that Gloucester’s Defence Coach Paul Moriarty is also set to leave the club in a complete staff re-shuffle.

Former Wales back-row forward Moriarty will not have his contract renewed, the Aviva Premiership club said.

He was one of Davies' first appointments in July 2012 as they resumed a coaching partnership that saw them work together at the Llanelli-based Scarlets.

"Firstly, I would like to thank Paul for all his efforts over the past two seasons," Gloucester Chief Executive Stephen Vaughan said.

"He has worked incredibly hard at the role. No-one can fault his application and dedication.

"However, defence is one of the most important facets of the modern game and we plan to introduce a new approach and philosophy in that area.

"Accordingly, we feel that with a new director of rugby being sought, it's only right and proper that we allow that individual to have a say in the recruitment of new coaches.

"Paul is now out of contract, and we have informed him that his contract will not be renewed.

"He is naturally disappointed, but understands the rationale. We would like to wish him well for the future."

Meanwhile, however, Newport Gwent Dragons Coaches Lyn Jones and Kingsley Jones are in the frame for a joint switch to Gloucester.

Former London Welsh boss Lyn Jones and ex-Gloucester captain Kingsley Jones could head up a new-look coaching team at Kingsholm next season, Talking Rugby Union understands.

Former All Blacks coach Wayne Smith is also understood to have an interest in replacing Nigel Davies at Gloucester, after the ex-Wales centre was sacked on Monday.

Gloucester have kick-started a worldwide search for the man to replace ousted coaching boss Davies, who was unseated after two years in the West Country.

Chief executive Stephen Vaughan said Gloucester 'will leave no stone unturned in our quest to find the right man for the job'.

No shortlist is yet thought to have been finalised but a clutch of interested parties are already in the spotlight.

Lyn Jones won five caps for Wales before building an impressive coaching reputation with the Ospreys and gaining widespread plaudits despite failing to save London Welsh from Aviva Premiership relegation last season.

Kingsley Jones continues to coach the Russia national team while also holding the assistant coaching role at the Dragons.

The 44-year-old made the five-strong shortlist when Gloucester appointed Scarlets boss Davies in 2012.

The Cherry and Whites have long since held their former club captain in high regard, and he could once again be vetted for a role.