Meyer linked to Bristol job

Former Springbok and Leicester coach Meyer and former Bristol forwards coach Martin Haag are among the names who have been linked with the club.

According to the Bristolpost the speculation surrounding both Haag and Meyer cranked up with the suspension of Robinson.

Despite the former Scotland and England coach Robinson leading the club back in the Premiership, under his reign the side have struggled this season. Bristol have lost all their seven Premiership matches leaving the side bottom of the log.

The 52-year-old Robinson has been advised to stay away from the club until a 'coaching and management review' which has prompted speculation that Robinson may not return at all.

However, the online newspaper Bristolpost stated that the timing of Haag's departure from England Under-20 was merely coincidental, while Meyer – who left his role with the Springboks last year – is not thought to be in the running to join the club.

According to the club's statement, they will make no further comment until a review is completed.

Bristol have been without a coaching figurehead since Sean Holley departed shortly before the club returned for pre-season training. They have the experienced Mark Bakewell running the forwards, while rookie coaches Jonathan Thomas and Dwayne Peel are taking care of the defence and attack, respectively, in their first coaching roles after stellar playing careers.

In the meantime, the club have appointed Mark Tainton as Acting Head coach. The club’s all-time leading points scorer, Tainton has previously coached at International level with Ireland, as well as with Wasps and London Irish in the Premiership.

While in the board-room Bristol have been really numb the club have bolstered their playing ranks before their Premiership clash with Bath later this month. New Zealander Jason Woodward will be in place before the Premiership trip to Bath on November 18, and others could arrive shortly.

Source: bristolpost.co.uk