Mike Ford succeeds Diego Dominguez for Toulon

Mike Ford has made a return to top-flight coaching, with the former England defence coach appointed first-team coach of French Top 14 club Toulon, just four months after his dismissal by Bath.

Ford will be responsible for attack, defence and overall game plan, after impressing club owner Mourad Boudjellal during a meeting last week.

He is due to start work today (Monday) and it is understood that his contract will run to the end of the season with the option of two more years.

More to follow.