Mike Ford To Leave Ireland Set-Up

The Irish Rugby Football Union has announced that defensive coach Mike Ford will be leaving the Irish senior team management to take up a position with English club side Saracens.

Ford, who joined the Ireland set-up in January 2002, will be leaving his current post at the end of November, following the permanent tsb November International series. The IRFU will be recruiting a new defensive coach for the Irish national team.

Commenting on Ford’s departure, Ireland coach Eddie O’Sullivan said: “Since joining the Irish squad, Mike has been an asset to the team. He has been thoroughly professional in his coaching and has contributed enormously to the recent success of the Irish team, in which its defensive record has continually improved throughout his tenure. I wish him the very best in his new position.”

The 39-year-old Ford will tour New Zealand with the British & Irish Lions this summer as defensive coach.