Harlequins have confirmed that Conor O'Shea will leave the club to coach Italy.

O'Shea's contract with the London-based side expires at the end of this European season. 

'I feel it is time for me to take on a new challenge and 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,' said the Irishman.

'O'Shea is a young technician with a track record of success in the field with strong managerial skills,' said the president of the Italian Rugby Union, Alfredo Gavazzi. 

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