By Jonathon Moore Rugby union editor

With England's Rugby World Cup-winning coach, Sir Clive Woodward, leaving for pastures new, the race to replace him could be a close-run affair.

Here BBC Sport highlights the contenders for the job.

Sir Clive's deputy takes over in the short-term - and is in pole position for long-term too.

On the training pitch, the former Bath head coach has been running England for years and even toured with the Lions as Graham Henry's right-hand man in 2001.

Robinson is renowned as an impressive motivator and has years of hands-on experience at the top of the game.

A tough-talking, highly prized coach, it remains to be seen whether he will want to swap his tracksuit for the world of political infighting that accompanies the top job.

FOR: Already coach and respected by the players
AGAINST: Tainted by recent results
VERDICT: Short-term successor

For many, the former England fly-half is the ideal candidate to take over from Sir Clive.

Having notched up 71 caps for his country, he commands respect from young and old.

Since hanging up his boots, he has enjoyed success with Newcastle, winning the English League title in 1998, and has acted as mentor to England hero Jonny Wilkinson.

However, his past willingness to take on authority, particularly the bigwigs at the RFU, could prove a thorn in his side.

FOR: Groomed as future England coach
AGAINST: Too outspoken for the RFU
VERDICT: Long-term favourite

Gloucester boss Nigel Melville is another candidate with impressive credentials.

The former England captain is one of the most respected coaches in the English game and has bags of experience from his time with Wasps and England Under-21's.

Melville even played a part in England's World Cup glory, being brought in to work with scrum-halves Matt Dawson, Kyran Bracken and Andy Gomarsall in the run-up to the showpiece in Australia.

He would also probably want to bring in his current right-hand man at Kingsholm, Dean Ryan.

FOR: Well respected and knows the England set-up
AGAINST: Failed to turn promise into results at Gloucester
VERDICT: Second favourite

With the RFU almost certain to opt for a native, the likelihood of an overseas candidate being appointed remains slim.

But should Gatland apply English rugby chiefs would face a tough task finding a more qualified candidate.

Since taking over at Wasps, Gatland has enjoyed enormous success, winning back-to-back Premiership titles as well as the Heineken Cup.

The New Zealander and former coach of Ireland is also credited with regenerating Irish rugby.

FOR: Superb record and proven experience
AGAINST: Wants to return home to New Zealand
VERDICT: Long-shot

The current Harlequins director of rugby recently applied for role of Wales coach - and impressed.

The ex-Saracens boss is largely credited with turning Quins around and is also a shrewd political operator.

Evans is well-regarded by those who work with him and has a growing reputation as a man who gets things done.

Whether his record of success on the field meets the RFU's requirements remains to be seen.

FOR: Heavyweight who gets things done
AGAINST: Lacks results - and trophies
VERDICT: Long-shot

Another long-shot, but an impressive one nonetheless. A fluent French speaker, Mallett is one of the world's most sought-after coaches.

He took the Springboks to the 1999 World Cup semi-finals and, under his tutelage, they also embarked on a monumental 17-Test unbeaten run.

Born in Hertfordshire, he left French giants Stade Francais in July after winning the French Championship title.

A coach of proven prowess, Mallett would relish the challenge.

FOR: As highly rated as any coach in world rugby
AGAINST: Already given his chance with the 'Boks
VERDICT: Long-shot