Harlequins have confirmed the appointment of England defence coach Paul Gustard as their new head of Rugby.

Gustard, 42, will take up his new post with the Aviva Premiership club after England’s tour to South Africa next month.

He replaces John Kingston, who revealed in April that he would be leaving Quins at the end of the season.

“Harlequins is delighted to announce that England defence coach Paul Gustard will join the London club as head of Rugby, following the conclusion of England’s summer tour to South Africa,” Hartlequins said in a statement.