English sides could have a chance, says McGeechan

He said: "The most important thing early on is just getting wins and rising as you go through the season. There will be a couple of English clubs not too far away.

"French clubs like Stade Francais and Toulouse will fancy their chances. Leinster look good, but you would never write Leicester off."

The 63-year-old, who also managed Wasps, has released his autobiography Lion Man and visited the Wharf for a signing session at Waterstone's in Cabot Place last Wednesday.

He said the book represented an opportunity to revisit his career while also getting some things off his chest.

McGeechan said: "I've been around for some time so we got it down on paper.

"And I've enjoyed it. It's taken 12 months and it's been quite an enjoyable exercise.

"We use the seven Lions tours as a link and look at what's happened in between, before and a bit of after. The Lions tour is the pivotal part of me and rugby."

After this summer's defeat in South Africa, McGeechan handed over the reins of the Lions team but predicted big things for its future.

The British and Irish Lions will get back together in 2013 for a trip down under and McGeechan thinks one of his backstaff team from South Africa could step up.

He said: "It's important to get the rugby right, ready for the next tour and have as good a series as possible in Australia.

"There's some good young coaches. The team I had this time are all good coaches and they have four years' experience. Probably half the squad will be available for next time as well.

"For succession that's quite important, carrying on the spirit and ethos of what the Lions is all about.

"The Lions board have asked if I'll keep some involvement. How big or small that is we'll have to see. But I am keen to do as much as I can to make sure it's in the best shape."

Away from the Lions, McGeechan is keeping his options open.

He was coy regarding rumours linking him with the director of rugby role at Harlequins following the recent sacking of Dean Richards over the bloodgate scandal.

He said: "If they want somebody, I'm available, but there's been no contact."

He added that he was disappointed with the actions of the man he could replace at the London club.

He said: "There's no place for that behaviour in the game.

"I've known and coached Dean Richards for a long time. He's a good friend. So I'm disappointed for him as well.

"The authorities have reacted pretty quickly and it just shows the game is in good heart and good spirit.

"You've just got to be wary of not allowing those standards to drop."