Leicester have confirmed the appointment of Marcelo Loffreda as their new head coach.

Loffreda, the current Argentina national coach, will arrive at Welford Road after this year's World Cup in October.

The 47-year-old will succeed Pat Howard, who is returning to Australia in the summer.

Loffreda has been linked with the Tigers post for several months, and was an overwhelming favourite for arguably English club rugby's top job.

And he could inherit a Leicester side at the peak of its powers.

Tigers have already won the EDF Energy Cup this season, while they meet Wasps in next month's Heineken Cup final and are also contesting the Guinness Premiership title.