Wales assistant coach Rob Howley in contention to take up Italy job after World Cup

Wales assistant coach Rob Howley is set to take in charge of Italy at the end of the World Cup that kicks-off this month in Japan.

Howley has been part of Wales backroom staff since 2008 and helped them to three Grand Slams and four Six Nations titles. He was also in charge of Wales during their 2013 Six Nations triumph when head coach Warren Gatland was busy with British and Irish Lions.

The 48-year-old also was an assistant coach of British and Irish Lions when they went on to win the 2013 series against Australia and the 2017 drawn series in New Zealand.

According to a report in On Rugby, Howley is among the top contenders to replace Conor O'Shea for head coach position of Italy. O'Shea's contract is set to expire in June next year but a poor display for Italy in the showpiece event could see him leaving the role at the end of the tournament.

Italy will face Namibia, Canada, South Africa and New Zealand in the World Cup that kicks-off on 20th September.