JONATHAN BELL will join the Gloucester rugby coaching staff under his former team-mate David Humphreys when he switches from Ulster in the close season to take on the role of assistant coach at Kingsholm.

The 40-year-old former Ireland international centre will take over responsibility for defensive duties from John Muggleton, whose one-year contract runs out in the summer.

"It's important that we acknowledge the role that John (Muggleton) has played at the club this year," said director of rugby Humphreys.

"He was the first of the new-look coaching team to arrive in pre-season and got down to work immediately with the squad.

"Our defence has improved significantly over the past few months and has been a key factor in the improved performances this season.

"John has worked extremely hard to develop this group of players and, at the end of the season, he will leave the squad with a much better understanding of the defensive qualities required to be successful.

"I'm delighted that Jonny will be joining Gloucester's coaching team ahead of next season. He's an individual I know very well having played alongside him and then worked with him at Ulster, and the work he has done with the Ulster squad over the past three years speaks for itself.

"I know he's very excited about the challenge ahead and I'm looking forward to welcoming him to Gloucester."