Former Scotland star David Hilton has backed Andy Robinson to propel sleeping giants Bristol back to the big time.
He delivered his forecast after Robinson was confirmed as the club’s new supremo three months after quitting as Scotland head coach.
Hilton, whose Test career hit the buffers over a birth certificate problem, was on the staff at Bristol until two years ago.
He reckons Robinson is the right man to take them back to the English Premiership and into Europe.
Hilton said: “Andy did a fantastic job with Scotland, but he was let down by some of his players particularly when they lost to Tonga in November.
“And I know he will make a massive difference at Bristol in terms of restoring them to where they should be among the very top sides south of the border.”
Hilton, who played for Bristol and Bath before switching to Glasgow, added: “It is the best possible news for the club. Apart from Newcastle Falcons they have had the biggest budget in the Championship, but have struggled to get close to promotion for the past couple of years.”
Robinson said: “I’m delighted to be joining Bristol at such an exciting time for the club.
“I firmly believe that, with the passion for rugby in the region and the vision of the owners, we have the potential to be one of the most successful sides in England.”