Meehan led Bath to the European Challenge Cup last season

Bath coach Steve Meehan is confident the club will cope with the departures of England stars Olly Barkley and Steve Borthwick.

Bath have strengthened their squad with Justin Harrison, Stuart Hooper and Shontayne Hape.

Meehan said: "Justin is a guy who has operated at the top end for a long time and is an authoritative figure.

"He is someone who has proved himself time and time again and will be demanding of those around him."

He added: "I think that Stuart Hooper will also arrive wanting to prove something and I think will react well within this group.

We cannot be a carbon copy of what we were this season - we need to change and evolve Bath coach Steve Meehan

"When you surround yourself with a good set of players, you are able to use all the tools you have at your disposal. So, in that sense, I am very certain that we will overcome the loss of Borthwick.

"As for Olly Barkley, I believe what will need to happen is for Shaun Berne to continue to play well. We also need Eliota Fuimaono-Sapolu to step up and prove himself on a consistent basis.

"He has the ability to do that and he will have the support, backing and faith of the coaches.

"Then, the introduction of Shontayne will change the dynamics of the team. We cannot be a carbon copy of what we were this season - we need to change and evolve."

Barkley will line up for Gloucester next season, while former captain Borthwick has joined Saracens.