The New Zealander Joe Schmidt has confirmed that he will meet with the Irish Rugby Union this week to discuss taking over the position of Ireland head coach.
A number of candidates are expected to be interviewed for the post, with Schmidt the favourite to succeed Declan Kidney, who was sacked two weeks ago.
Schmidt has led Leinster to two Heineken Cup successes in recent years.
Schmidt, the former Blues assistant coach, admits he's struggled at times with the Irish Union and they've struggled with him, and so that may be an issue.
Schmidt has a year remaining of his Leinster contract and has had his share of run-ins with the Irish hierarchy.
Les Kiss, the interim coach for the upcoming two-test North America tour, is also thought to be on the shortlist.
