Howard, a world champion in 1987, 1993, 2007 and 2002, has been unveiled by British Curling as the team seeks to improve upon their bronze medal finish at the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics.

The 53-year-old is still competing at the highest level and is the only player to have won world titles in four different decades, claiming his first before Muirhead was even born. 

The partnership represents a "major coup" for Team Muirhead at a key moment in their bid to compete at the Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Olympics following the addition of Lauren Gray to the team.

“It is a massive boost to have Glenn Howard joining our team," said Muirhead, a world champion herself in 2013.

"Having won four World Championships he is a legend in the sport and someone I have always looked up to.

“His track record in the game demonstrates his calibre at the top level while he is still actively competing, which means we can have complete confidence that his tactical knowledge is 100 per cent up to date. 

"That is exactly what we are looking for to help us build on the success we have already achieved.”

Howard is still hoping to compete at Pyeongchang 2018 himself, so it is not clear how he will juggle his playing and coaching responsibilities.

But he is excited for the new challenge.

“I am honoured and humbled to be a part of the coaching staff for one of the best ladies teams in the world, Team Muirhead,” said the Canadian.

“I know what it takes to become one of the World’s best and more importantly what it takes to stay there. 

"There are many sacrifices required but as long as the team has the belief in each other, the drive and commitment, goals can be achieved.

“I see these qualities within Team Muirhead, I believe that my experience can complement the work they have already been doing. 

"This is an extremely talented team that I plan to help make better.”

Muirhead's team compete for Scotland in non-Olympic international events, and will be targeting November's home European Championships in the Braehead Arena in Renfrewshire.