Joe Schmidt is eager to replace Declan Kidney as Ireland head coach © Getty Images

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Leinster coach Joe Schmidt expects to learn whether he will become the next Ireland head coach by the end of next week following an interview for the role.

The New Zealander, who has led Leinster to two Heineken Cups, spoke to the IRFU about the vacancy this week and on Friday night he told the Late Late Show about his desire to succeed Declan Kidney.

"I think toward the end of next week," he repsonded when asked when he expected to hear back from the IRFU. "I know it won't be long because for me I made a commitment to Leinster and I did say to them that I was fully committed to that and prepared to continue with that, but they have encouraged me to at least engage in the conversations and we'll see what comes of it."

Schmidt is favourite for the role but faces competition from Ireland's current attack coach Les Kiss and Reds coach Ewen McKenzie. The Kiwi indicated that international rugby would suit him as it would allow him more time to help his wife take care of their nine-year-old son Luke, who has epilepsy.

"We had a really good chat. To be honest they know me pretty well and I know them pretty well," he said.

Responding to host Ryan Tubridy's suggestion he 'wanted' the job, Schmidt said: "Well, yes, I think so," before joking: "We (he and the IRFU) probably know each other too well and neither of us are sure about it. But whoever gets the job, it's a super job. It is certainly one of the big jobs in world rugby.

He added: "For me ... it's a seven-day working week at the moment. With a national team, certainly when the team are in camp, it's very, very busy but it would give me a little bit of flexible time and available time to help support Luke and certainly my wife in looking after him."