Gary Gold will become head coach of the USA Eagles at the end of the 2017-18 European season.

Gold was appointed Worcester Warriors director of rugby at the beginning of the year, but the English club confirmed on Monday that the 50-year-old will fulfill his contractual obligations before vacating his position at end of the current season.

‘I would like to thank Bill Bolsover and the board for understanding my decision to accept the opportunity to coach at international level,’ said Gold.

‘I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Sixways and my focus will remain on the Warriors until the end of the season, where I hope to leave the club in a strong place to ensure it can be successful in the long term.’

Gold will help Worcester to identify his successor.

Meanwhile, John Plumtree has been appointed as Japan’s defence coach for their end-of-year games against the World XV, Australia and France. He will retain his job as Hurricanes assistant coach.

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