Scotland Coach Vern Cotter was disappointed that he wasn't offered another Scottish contract despite signing to coach at Montpellier next season.
The New Zealander was informed by Murrayfield chiefs back in August that his contract would not be renewed when it expires next summer.
Gregor Townsend will lead the side through to the 2019 World Cup after the Scottish Rugby Union acted to stave off the attempts from big-spending English and French sides to poach the highly-rated Glasgow boss by promoting him to its top job.
Cotter - who has already lined up a move to Top 14 outfit Montpellier once his work in Scotland is complete - reckons his current employers have chosen the right man to replace him, but feels he still could have taken Scotland further.
Cotter now has eight games remaining, starting with next month's autumn Tests, before he relinquishes control.
Cotter, who on Tuesday announced a 31-man squad for the clashes with Australia, Argentina and Georgia, said: "I understand (the decision). As a competitor you're always disappointed if you want to go places and have objectives in mind. That's natural but it's done, we just move on now.
"The decision was made to put Gregor in place and I think it's a good decision. The executives made that decision and I respect it.
"The deal is the deal now, so we just get on with the job and get on with these last eight games.
"There will be some emotions but if you look at the big picture it's not about me. It's about Scottish rugby.
"Later on I might sit back and reflect on things but right now I'm completely focused on the games in front of me. I enjoy seeing players develop and getting better. I enjoy seeing them perform well on the paddock.
"So seeing them improve in the last eight games before we break up is what I'm looking to achieve."
AP
