Howley tipped for role at Cardiff

The 34-year-old replaces Geraint John, who quit the Arms Park to run the youth academy of Hartpury College last month.

A wrist injury forced Howley to end his playing career with Wasps last year and he joins Dai Young, Richard Webster and Allan Lewis on the Blues coaching team.

"Rob further strengthens a young and enthusiastic coaching set-up," said head coach Dai Young.

"I believe that Rob and myself, together with [forwards coach] Richard Webster, will have the commitment plus the self-support system to help put the Blues back where they should be at the top of the tree in Wales and beyond.

"Rob will join us at the end of June when the squad reports for pre-season training. It promises to be an exciting time."

The change from player to coach has come a year or so sooner than I had planned Rob Howley

Howley, who joined Cardiff from Bridgend before ending his playing days at Wasps, said he was delighted to be returning to the Arms Park.

"Coming back to my former club means a lot to me and the coaching role is a natural progression from my playing career," said Howley.

"There is no denying that because of my hand injury the change from player to coach has come a year or so sooner than I had planned but, fortunately, I was already preparing for this next stage.

"I have taken dual coaching badges under the WRU and RFU schemes and being involved with the professional environment at London Wasps has also been an important part of the learning curve.

"Of course, I've still got a lot to learn but I'll certainly have the right people around me.

"Dai and I go back a long way as team-mates for Cardiff, Wales and the Lions and I'm sure we can be equally successful working together as coaches."