Dave Walder: Exeter boss Rob Baxter tight-lipped on links to attack coach

As well as a new backs coach, Exeter are also expected to appoint a new forwards specialist following Hunter’s departure.

The quartet of Baxter, Hunter, Hepher and Pellow has been at the helm for all of Exeter’s achievements – including six consecutive Premiership finals, of which they won two, and a victory in the 2020 European Champions Cup.

But the Chiefs have struggled to match the form of the final half of the 2010s in the past few seasons, finishing seventh in the last three seasons.

This campaign has been the worst in the club’s top-flight history – they will finish ninth in the 10-team Premiership and have won just four league games.

“We’re really trying to focus on what will make us a stronger team day by day, week by week, going forward,” Baxter added.

“Our biggest challenge is becoming as strong a team as we can first and everything else will come secondary to that. That’s what I’m focusing on now.

“I’m focusing on the qualities that will make us a stronger team and I’m keeping it that simple.

“Because the foundation for us to be successful is how good any 15 players are at any one time on the field together – and that’s the bit I’m really focusing on, keeping it that simple.”