Goings on at the Ospreys may not concern the Scottish fans, but it perhaps should.
As of this moment Ospreys coaching duo Sean Holley and Scott Johnson have left their posts with immediate effect and a successor has been brought in to take over the day to day running of the side.
This is significant for us for two reasons. First, as is obvious, Scott Johnson was scheduled to take up a post with the Scotland set-up for the summer tour down Under. With nothing to do for the next few months is it possible that the former Wales’ skills coach and Wallabies assistant coach will travel north of the border to help out earlier than planned? He says he is off home for a stint, but perhaps Robinson should try and dissuade him.
If so it would be a move that could stave off criticism for Andy Robinson. As defence coach Steadman is confirmed as one who is leaving after the 6 Nations and Gregor Townsend negotiates a new deal –moves which have caused a certain amount of consternation amongst the fans, mainly because the defence has been good whilst the attack somewhat less so –it would be seen as another progressive step.
Perhaps he may follow through wih his plan and hold off until the summer, but at this stage, whilst players appear to be facing abuse from a minority of disheartened fans and Scotland slip down the World rankings table, it would go some way to showing that this management team are aware of the issues of scoring and are looking to address it. It could also show support of those young players like Hogg, Weir and Matt Scott who could get a lot more guidance and a little more attention with both Townsend and Johnson around.
The second point of interest could of course be that the Ospreys, a region known for extravagant playing budgets, flash kit and an approach that sometimes verges out of left field, have appointed an instant successor in Steve Tandy.
Who is he? The 32-year-old was manager of Principality Premiership club Bridgend, whom he guided to promotion last term, and was a back-rower for the Ospreys 102 times.
It is a bold call from the self-styled Ospreylian outfit. They have rewarded a local coach and given him an opportunity to show his ability at the top level. It is indeed rare to see such faith in a relatively unknown coach. However, would one of the pro sides in Scotland ever be so intrepid in their appointments?
With both clubs there is a suggestion that they would rather appoint head coaches from recognised fields and assistants tend to be those either fresh from the game or that have held similar positions within the organisation.
As we look to promote youthful players in this new age, should we be doing the same with our relatively unknown but still hard working coaches?