Former Leicester Tigers head director of rugby Richard Cockerill has been confirmed as the new head coach at Guiness PRO12 side Edinburgh.

Speaking at the announcement, Scottish Rugby Chief Executive, Mark Dodson said: “I am very pleased to have secured Richard’s services given how highly sought after he was from leading clubs across Europe.

BREAKING | Richard Cockerill has been appointed Head Coach of Edinburgh Rugby with effect from the start of next season. pic.twitter.com/jGErTYng9q

— Edinburgh Rugby (@EdinburghRugby) February 20, 2017

"As a highly experienced, winning coach we targeted him and worked hard to ensure his talents could be secured for the benefit of Edinburgh Rugby.

"I believe his appointment clearly demonstrates our commitment to developing and maintaining success at our professional clubs in Scotland," he added.

Cockerill himself said: “I am very much looking forward to a new challenge and the opportunity at Edinburgh Rugby ticked all the boxes.

"The conversations I had with Mark Dodson and Scott Johnson were instrumental in understanding what the vision for Edinburgh Rugby is and it is a project I’m excited to be a part of.

“I’m also relishing the chance of coaching in the Guinness PRO12, which is a new league for me, and working with a clearly talented group of players," he added. 

Edinburgh currently sit ninth in the PRO12 and Cockerill is due to take up his new role at the start of next season.