Harlequins director of rugby Conor O’Shea will become head coach of Italy when he steps down at the end of the season.

O’Shea announced he was leaving domestic rugby in January after six years with Quins, and he was immediately linked with the Italian post.

However, it was not until last weekend that the 45-year-old finally confirmed he would be taking over from Frenchman Jacques Brunel.

He said: “I feel the end of this season is the right time for me to take on a new challenge.

"I am honoured, humbled and excited that I will be working with everyone in Italian rugby to ensure they can achieve on the undoubted potential they have as a rugby nation."

On the domestic front, Quins’ returning England heroes could not prevent a second consecutive defeat in the Aviva Premiership.

Danny Care, Mike Brown, Joe Marler and Jack Clifford were all in action on Saturday as Quins tumbled 29-23 at top four rivals Northampton.

Clifford and Tim Visser bagged the tries, and Ben Botica kicked two conversions and three penalties.

The result opened a six-point gap between Quins in sixth and Northampton Saints in fourth, however, a losing bonus point does keep Conor O’Shea’s men within striking distance of Leicester in fifth.

Time is running out as this weekend’s visit to the Stoop by struggling Newcastle Falcons is the first of the four remaining games.

O’Shea said: “There is no room for error at this stage of the season, but we are not going to overreact or panic after recent results.”

Meanwhile, Botica, Mat Luamanu and Luke Wallace have been nominated for March’s DHL supporters’ player of the month award.

Fans have until 5pm today (Friday) to register their vote at quins.co.uk.