Stuart Lancaster believes Joe Schmidt will be gunning to get back into rugby having been linked with World Rugby's Director of Performance role.
Former Ireland boss Schmidt quit after the last World Cup but worked on a number of consultancy gigs before lockdown and would be in demand if he wanted a return.
The World Rugby job would involve Schmidt overseeing the management of match officials, liaising with Test coaches and supervising high performance development in second tier rugby nations.
An appointment is expected in September, but Dublin based Schmidt is believed to be a key contender.
"The sooner Joe’s back in the game, the better really," said senior Leinster coach Lancaster.
"If he was anything like me during lockdown, I had three for months without coaching and by the end I was like, ‘please get me back’ and I’m sure Joe will be the same.
"He’ll have had plenty of offers, both within rugby in terms of coaching, or within the administration of the game because of his knowledge and intellect.
"So it will be interesting what plays out but I just hope Joe is back soon. I’m sure he will be".
