Eddie Jones is set to have his return as Japan’s head coach confirmed before the start of 2024, according to reports in Australia.

The 63-year-old quit last month as Wallabies coach after Australia’s exit from the World Cup in the group stage, having won just two times in nine Tests since taking over in January.

He has been heavily linked with a return to Japan, who he led from 2012 to 2015.

Jones, who has repeatedly denied any links with Japan, is top of the list of candidates to replace the departed Jamie Joseph, with former Vodacom Bulls coach Frans Ludeke also in contention.

However, according to the Sydney Morning Herald, Jones has beaten Ludeke in the race and will return to Japan, pending the approval of the JRFU board on 13 December.

Jones could be revealed as Japan’s head coach before January, with a press conference reportedly scheduled for the same day as the board meeting.

Photo: ANDREW BOYERS/ REUTERS