Harlequins statement: The signing of ex-Glasgow boss Danny Wilson

Former Glasgow boss Danny Wilson is back in rugby after securing a deal to join Harlequins as an assistant for the 2023/24 season. It was last June when he received his marching orders at the Warriors in the wake of a URC quarter-final hammering at Leinster.

Seven months later, though, Wilson has secured a move south of the Scottish border and his arrival at Harlequins as lineout and contact coach will see Jerry Flannery, who currently has the responsibility for that dual role, focus full-time on the defence from next season.

A statement read: “Harlequins are delighted to announce that Danny Wilson will join the club ahead of the 2023/24 season in a full-time role as lineout and contact coach. Wilson brings vast experience as a forwards and head coach in his previous roles and will provide elite delivery and support in all facets of the programme, providing a senior set of eyes to support head coach Tabai Matson.

“Wilson’s impressive coaching CV includes lifting the 2017/18 Challenge Cup title with Cardiff, reaching a World Rugby U20 Championship final with Wales U20s and coaching Scotland men’s forwards from 2018 to 2020. Most recently, Wilson served in the role of head coach at URC side Glasgow Warriors.

“Joining a strong Harlequins coaching group, Wilson’s arrival will see Jerry Flannery, the current lineout and defence coach, focus full-time on defence.”

Billy Millard, the Harlequins director of rugby performance, said: “We are delighted to welcome Danny to the club on a full-time basis this summer ahead of the 2023/24 season. I have worked with Danny previously and I know the level of detail and energy he will bring to our programme.”

Wilson added: “It's a great honour to join a club with the history, prestige and passionate supporter base of Harlequins. Recent success at Harlequins has been clear for all to see. However, I have also been really impressed with the future vision, plans and passion for the club presented by Billy, Tabai and everyone I have met at the club so far.

“I’m looking forward to joining the team and contributing next season to what is clearly a really talented group of players and staff.”