London Welsh RFC are planning to act swiftly in naming a new head coach after confirming Lyn Jones had been released from his contract.

The 48-year-old wants to move back to Wales for family reasons after two years with the club and is widely expected to be heading for Newport Gwent Dragons.

The Exiles’ decision on whether they will be playing home games in Oxford next season has dragged on for several weeks, but they are keen to act quickly in the search for a replacement coach.

Bleddyn Phillips, Welsh’s chairman, said: “The club has already identified a short list of three eminently qualified people to take over the role of head coach.

“We very much hope to finalise such discussions in the next few days.”

Jones said: “The club has the vision and ambition to ensure a successful pursuit of retaining its position as one of the top teams in English rugby.”