And after back-to-back defeats to Ulster in the European Cup, Goosen has taken over ahead of a RaboDirect PRO12 clash with third-placed Glasgow Warriors.
But despite the change, Goosen revealed that he will not be making wholesale changes, having learnt his rugby philosophy from the departing Smith.
He told Rugby People: "It's a delicate situation for the team, we need to start on a new path. For me it's an interesting adventure but at the same time the change has come as a shock.
"Now I find myself in the position of having to replace Franco, who as everyone knows, is a good friend of mine. Until now my coaching experience was entirely as his assistant so my vision of rugby is very similar to his. Now I'll try to put in place some of my own ideas.
"We need to go back to basics, for example on first phase attack and the players will be given greater responsibility in the decision-making.
"I'm not thinking about the derby against Zebre, what is most important at the moment is that the players rediscover their enthusiasm and belief. The recent events need to stimulate everyone."
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