Robinson will take charge for the autumn internationals

But Robinson has informed the Rugby Football Union he would like to succeed his former boss on a permanent basis.

"I made it very clear to the RFU and Clive that my wish was for him stay on as head coach," Robinson said.

"However, I have now been offered an opportunity, which I have accepted and I'm looking forward to England's first training session on 20 September."

Robinson, already a senior coach in the England set-up with responsibility for the forwards, has two weeks to get used to his new elevated role.

He will take over on an interim basis for the period leading up to and including November Tests against Canada, South Africa and Australia.

I'm sure Andy will do an excellent job RFU chief Francis Baron

"I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Clive over the last four years with England," Robinson added.

"I would personally like to congratulate him on the success he has achieved in leading England to the World Cup as the number one team in the world. I wish him all the best."

RFU chief executive Francis Baron confirmed Robinson will be a "strong candidate" to succeed Woodward permanently.

"Clive will obviously be a very tough act to follow but we are fortunate to have a wide number of highly qualified coaches within the existing England coaching set up and that is where we will start our search," Baron said.

"Andy has a wealth of experience at club and international level and I'm sure he will do an excellent job.

Robinson is a good number two but someone else should take over the top job From Martin Have your say on Scrum V

"He is clearly a strong candidate for the full-time post and he can apply for the job, on a full-time basis, in accordance with our procedures. He has informed me that he will do so."

Robinson, 40, won eight England caps as an openside flanker between 1988 and 1995.

A major contributor to Bath's five league titles during that period, he joined the club's coaching staff in 1997, where Woodward worked alongside him as backs coach.