CONNACHT’S MICHAEL SWIFT, the province’s most-capped player, will retire from rugby at the end of the season.
The 37-year-old is currently recovering from a fractured leg but is on course to return before the end of the season and add to his 268 provincial caps before hanging up his boots.
In his 15 seasons, Swift has played 183 times in the Celtic League / Pro12 — the record for the competition.
The big second row said: “Whilst I’ve known this was coming for quite some time, it’s still quite surreal to think I’ll soon be saying goodbye to the team and the lads I’ve played with for so long.
Connacht Rugby has been a huge part of my life for over 15 years and it’s difficult to imagine no longer being involved.
“I’ve enjoyed every bit of my time with the province and have so many people to thank for the opportunities afforded to me.”
RIP George Best, one of the All time greats. I seem to recall United also played West Ham (at Upton Park) after his death and the Hammer’s fans paid a fitting tribute to him.