DUAL code Tongan international Tevita Vaikona has been appointed head coach of Oxford Harlequins.

Vaikona, whose role encompasses the whole Oxford Rugby set-up, will work alongside director of rugby John Brodley.

The 37-year-old former Bradford Bulls and Saracens player originally joined in the summer as a coaching consultant, but was offered the senior role after making a big impact.

Vaikona, who moved with his family to become head of sporting relations at Magdalen College School, said: “It is a role I used to do. I did it for a couple of seasons at Hull.

“I got them up to the next level – National 2 North – and managed to stabilise them.

“I am still getting my feet under the table, so I am not going to set any targets yet.

“The main thing for me is to know what the ambition of the club is, the kind of players they have and want to have.”

Vaikona had a successful professional career as a wing and centre, appearing in the 1995 and 2000 rugby league World Cups before moving to union with Saracens in 2004.

But the big Tongan is out injured after having pins inserted in his broken left ankle.

“I have got a job with Magdalen College School. I don’t know about playing,” he said.

“I’m not sure at the moment. When you get older, you need more time to come back from big injuries. That’s the position I am in.”

Oxford Rugby chairman Ron Macdonald explained Vaik-ona’s appointment.

“We found that because of his experience, he has made a big difference. He will be involved in player recruitment as well.

“The ultimate say over selection will be with John Brodley because he is director of rugby.

“However, both work together very well.”

Macdonald added: “He will also work with John to produce a short, medium and long-term strategy for growth and development of senior rugby within Oxford.”