Here’s a suggested hit list for the coach’s job:

Robbie Deans

Currently with Panasonic Wild Knights, Deans would seem a long shot to take the reins at the Reds. But it is understood QRU officials regard him as a dream candidate and game-changer - if they can afford him.

While he was a polarising figure as Wallabies coach, Deans’ success as a provincial coach is undeniable: 10 titles across Super Rugby and Japan’s Top League/League One.

Vern Cotter

An experienced international coach, Cotter helped Deans win titles with the Crusaders as their forwards coach in 2005 and 2006. He secured a French top 14 title in 2010 as Clermont head coach and has also been an international head coach with both Scotland and Fiji.

Cotter could bring a hard edge, helping eradicate the ill-discipline and inconsistency which has plagued the team.

Matt Taylor

Taylor has had a long and distinguished apprenticeship as an assistant coach at the professional level: 2011 Super Rugby title with the Reds, 2015 Pro12 title with Glasgow Warriors, five years with Scotland, followed by three years under Dave Rennie at the Wallabies.

Taylor is now working with the Ricoh Black Rams in Japan’s Rugby League One. His top-tier leadership potential remains untested.

Dave Rennie

Already linked to jobs with Kobe in Japan and the Blues in Auckland, the likelihood of Rennie taking a job in Australian provincial rugby seems low, especially after being sacked as Wallabies coach.

While his time as the Australian national coach failed to inspire the nation consistently, there’s no doubt Rennie is worth making a call to.

Les Kiss

Head coach of London Irish, Kiss has previously been Ulster’s director of rugby and assistant coach to the Ireland national team, including for their watershed Grand Slam Six Nations title in 2009.

While Kiss has a strong rugby league background, most of his coaching career has been spent in rugby union.

Jason Gilmore

Waratahs defence coach Gilmore has previously been an assistant coach with the Reds, as well as head coach of the Junior Wallabies and Australia ‘A’ head coach last year.

Gilmore is ambitious and has a deep connection with Queensland Rugby, having previously held coaching roles at schoolboys, NRC, club and academy levels.

Other contenders will throw their hat in the ring, but if one of the above can be landed, the following might be best looked at for assistant roles:

Zane Hilton

The Nudgee College product’s knowledge, detail and planning is highly thought. Currently coaching in Japan’s third division, stepping up to Super Rugby head coach would seem too big a leap.

Laurie Fisher

The Brumbies stalwart is finishing up in Canberra but remains one of the most respected coaches in Australia. Convincing him to delay retirement and move to Queensland would be a masterstroke.

Ben Te’o

The dual international hasn’t been coaching long but has already made an impact as the contact coach for the Dolphins’ NRL side. Would make an excellent contact/defence coach for the Reds.

Peter Hewat

Currently in charge of Ricoh Black Rams in Japan, Hewat is known for his attacking nous. Could perform that role at Ballymore and ideally bring former Reds player Isaac Lucas back with him from Ricoh.

Tim Sampson

The Rebels attack coach has head coach experience with the Western Force and is well thought of in the rugby community. Would be interested in an assistant role in his home state.

Rod Seib

Another former Queenslander doing wonders helping a rival state, Seib is the Brumbies attack coach. He is tactically smart and highly respected, seen as a future head coach.

Mick Heenan

Whispers about Heenan being Thorn’s heir have softened. After one season as an assistant, deserves a chance to remain at Ballymore in a support role, perhaps with an eye to long-term promotion.