Former England international Lewis Moody has called on his old club Bath to challenge for the top.

After a disappointing 2011-12 season which saw them finish eight, Bath have employed South African Gary Gold as their new boss following the departure of Sir Ian McGeechan.

The former skipper believes that the new man in charge is a good appointment by the club.

"I think it's going to be great for the club," said Moody. "I've not been around the club too much, but when I have been in there and spoken to some of the guys they all speak very highly of what is going on, of the detail and work that is going into it and the different direction that Gary is going in.

"The coaches that he has around him - Mike Ford, Toby Booth and Neal Hatley - he just keeps adding those specialised coaches in those areas that you really need.

"Now it's time for Bath as a club to step up and start challenging. They have the quality of players, it's just time to step up as a team and perform. I think Gary will definitely draw the best out of the players that is for sure."

Moody retired from rugby in March after a shoulder injury.