The Scottish Rugby Union are aiming to appoint a new Scotland head coach before the end of next week, it is understood.

The SRU are keen to have someone in place before the A team take part in the IRB Nations Cup, fuelling speculation Andy Robinson is set to land the role.

Former England boss Robinson - who is currently head coach at Edinburgh - will be in charge for this summer's trip to Romania, which kicks off with a game against Russia a week on Friday.

A five-man panel has been in the process of interviewing candidates to replace Frank Hadden as head coach of the senior side for a number of weeks.

The panel - which includes three former Scotland and Lions internationals - is led by SRU chief executive Gordon McKie.

He said a fortnight ago the shortlist was down to "three or four individuals".

He added: "If we can make the appointment in time for June, when our A team go on tour then that would be fine. But it's not essential."