London Irish will reportedly announce Tom Coventry as their new head coach for next season later today.

The Aviva Premiership strugglers confirmed the departure of Brian Smith yesterday afternoon with immediate effect due to personal reasons.

It is claimed by The Telegraph that Coventry, who is currently assistant coach of the Chiefs Super Rugby side in New Zealand, will be appointed as Smith's successor at the Madejski Stadium.

It is believed that the 48-year-old will also continue his work with the Samoa national team during this year's World Cup, before taking up the reins at the Exiles in the autumn.

Irish's forwards coach Glenn Delaney is expected to take charge of the team until the end of the current season.