FORMER Gloucester full-back Rob Cook is Malvern Rugby Club's new director of rugby.

The 32-year-old is "excited about the challenges ahead" and is hoping to "build something special" at Spring Lane.

Cook played 79 Premiership games for the Cherry and Whites between 2012 and 2016.

He has previously been head coach of Malvern's Colts team and returns to the club in the summer.

Malvern are seventh in Midlands Two West (South) with seven wins and nine defeats from 16 matches.

"I am really looking forward to re-joining Malvern Rugby Club," said Cook.

"I am still wanting to play but want to get my teeth stuck into coaching as well.

"It is a club I have been involved in for a while over the last few seasons and I am excited about the challenges ahead.

"I have worked with both the senior and youth sections in the past and there is huge potential within the club."

Lincoln-born Cook joined the ranks at Gloucester in 2012 having racked up more than 1,000 points in 104 appearances for Cornish Pirates.

After leaving Kingsholm, Cook took up a teaching role at King Edward VI grammar school in Stratford-Upon-Avon having been appointed as deputy director of sport. He also re-joined Nuneaton Rugby Club.

Malvern chairman John Holden said former director of rugby Dave Irish was "instrumental" in bringing the former Gloucester ace back to Spring Lane. Irish had stepped down in December due to work commitments.

Holden said: "Dave was an excellent director of rugby for the club, and the appointment of Rob will continue that good work, in particular the development of Colts players into first-team regulars.

"We are very pleased to have secured Rob's services. His playing record speaks for itself, and he is an excellent coach and still a top class player.

"The whole club looks forward to enjoying the benefits of his vast playing experience and coaching skills".

Cook gained representative honours with England Universities, Midlands under 18s and England Counties.

He helped Nuneaton to the National Division Three North league title in 2008-09.

In May 2009, Cook signed for Pirates as a wing before moving to fly-half and then to full-back where he had so much success with the boot.

He was known for his distinctive stance before attempting a conversion or penalty.

Cook said: "There have been long discussions with Dave (Irish) and the future looks bright for Malvern.

"I hope we can build something special."