Andy Robinson has confirmed he wants to succeed Frank Hadden as Scotland head coach by applying for the role.
The former England boss left it until yesterday’s deadline before deciding whether to put his name forward.
“I decided that I wanted to go into the interview process and if you put yourself forward then obviously you want the role,” he said today.
Edinburgh head coach Robinson has been the bookies’ favourite for the position since Hadden stepped down almost three weeks ago. He spent the last week and a half insisting he needed more time to make up his mind, casting doubt on his desire for the job.
Asked if he thought he was the right candidate to replace Hadden, he told BBC Scotland: “I wouldn’t be applying unless I thought so.
“This is a great opportunity for me and I feel like I can make a difference in the international game in Scotland.”
Robinson believes he can get the best out of a team which has struggled for a number of years.
“It’s a team that’s got a lot of potential,” he said. “The Scottish players are working hard and improving but you can’t make big leaps.
“It’s about the consistency of that improvement and I think the players are showing that.”
The 45-year-old will now face competition from Scotland forwards coach Mike Brewer, who is the only other man to confirm his interest.
However, it is thought the Scottish Rugby Union have received a number of applications from around the world.
Chief executive Gordon McKie said: “We are currently engaged in a recruitment process to identify a new head coach for Scotland to ensure that we raise the standard of the Scotland team.
“We anticipate that the new head coach will act as a catalyst for not only our national team but indeed assist in other elements of our strategic plan including raising player numbers and increasing competition.”
He added: “We have been pleased with the quality of applicants for the post of Scotland head coach and we will now begin the process of reviewing the applications with a view to getting the interviews under way as soon as is practicable.”
The process of interviews will take place over the coming weeks and will be conducted by a panel which will include external representation with experience in the game.
