MUNSTER HAVE CONFIRMED that former England coach Andy Farrell will join the province on a part-time basis until the end of the season.
The Englishman will join in an advisory role to provide support to head coach Anthony Foley and his existing coaching team.
Farrell will take up the position with immediate effect.
“We have been looking for additional support for our coaching staff and with the timely availability of an experienced coach such as Andy Farrell we felt his inclusion would be hugely beneficial in assisting our coaching team,” said Munster CEO Garrett Fitzgerald.
The IRFU has lent its support to the move, with Farrell set to assume the role of defence coach with Ireland before June’s tour of South Africa.
“Andy’s gardening leave prevents him from coaching in the international game at this time but he has agreed to an advisory role working with Anthony and his backroom team,” said IRFU performance director David Nucifora.
Last week brought the surprise announcement of the IRFU’s signing of Farrell as defence coach for Joe Schmidt’s national team, on a contract that extends to the 2019 World Cup.
The Englishman’s international deal will begin before the June tour to South Africa, with the ‘gardening leave’ period of his settlement with the RFU meaning Farrell could not join in time for this year’s Six Nations.
However, the terms of that restriction do not apply to club/provincial rugby and Farrell is therefore free to be parachuted into Munster to help halt their staggering run of poor form.
The 40-year-old brings strong coaching pedigree from his time with Saracens, England and the 2013 Lions, as well as a reputation as a no-nonsense motivator and sharp training-ground technician.
Christ, ripped them a new one…pity not more at the match considering its rovers, see lots of empty seats…
@ARZE BANDITO: Monday night but still not enough on Fridays either
@Ollie Watson I would’ve estimated 3500/4000 at Fridays match against Dundalk
@Darren Sheils: 4000 only 1500 last night