Mike Ford unveiled as Germany’s new head coach

Former Bath, England, Lions and Toulon coach Mike Ford has been named as the new boss of the German national team.

“I am delighted that I now have the opportunity to develop such an ambitious team as Germany, and possibly even lead them to a World Cup for the first time,” commented Ford.

“Of course it is a big challenge, but that is what makes this task so attractive. I think that this national team has a lot of potential.”

Ford signed an initial contract until the end of November, with an option to extend should Germany qualify for the World Cup. He will work alongside director of rugby Kobus Potgiete and defence and forwards coach Mouritz Botha.

Germany had been on the lookout for a new coach following the departure of Pablo Lemoine, who last week agreed to take the reins of the Chilean national team.