Harlequins RL have ended weeks of speculation by announcing Rob Powell as their new head coach in the wake of Brian McDermott’s departure.

Powell, 30, has been Acting Head Coach since McDermott’s exit for Leeds in September and was his assistant for four years at The Twickenham Stoop.

And chairman David Hughes was quick to shoot down suggestions the club have dithered over their decision.

Hughes said: “We have taken our time in this process to ensure it has been as thorough as possible and I would like to thank our supporters for their patience during this period.

“We have considered a number of candidates, sought advice from a range of knowledgeable sources and fully consulted with the senior players.

“Also, throughout this period we have also been able to monitor Rob’s performance in the role which has been excellent.

“He has the full backing of the players and has been integral in the re-signing and recruitment of the 2011 squad, which will be completed shortly.

“I am therefore totally convinced he is the best candidate for the job.

“I believe that we are stronger and will be better prepared for the season ahead and I genuinely think Rob will put London firmly back on the Rugby League map.”

Despite coming from a non rugby-league background, Powell has made strides since linking up with the South London Storm in 2004, becoming a community sports coach and ultimately head coach of the club.

During his tenure the South London side enjoyed a successful period on the pitch, including winning the National Conference championship in 2006.

Powell then became involved with Harlequins youth development before moving to assist McDermott in 2007.

And the new coach, who has signed a two-year-deal, insists he is the right man for the job.

Powell said: “I am aware of the challenges ahead and am really looking forward to it.

“We are confident we can have a really positive year, but we realise that in order to do so, we all need to pull together in the same direction to make it happen.

“In that sense I am glad we have such an excellent support staff including the experience of Latham Tawhai in the coaching department.

“The squad has a great blend to it with a strong senior player group who have been together for a while, plus a good mix of talent from London, the North of England and overseas.

“The first three weeks of pre season have been fantastic and the boys have responded really well to what we have been implementing.

“As a group, we are driven, focused and ready to go.”