CONOR O’SHEA will join the RFU as director of performance to replace Nigel Melville, who leaves his position as director of professional rugby.
Melville will depart next month to “pursue other opportunities”, while O’Shea, who resigned as Italy coach earlier this month, takes up his role next year.
The RFU said O’Shea will be “responsible for the leadership, management and strategic direction of the professional game in England.
“With the aim to support long-term sustainable success at international level, (he) will manage the England players, coach...