O'Driscoll signs new IRFU contract
Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll has signed a new and improved contract with the IRFU that will keep him at Leinster until 2011.
O'Driscoll was quick to confirm his allegiance to Leinster: “I have spent my entire professional rugby career with Leinster and it has always been an honour and privilege to wear the blue jersey. When I sat back and thought about it, it was not a difficult decision to make.
"I am happy with the coaching set up that we have here and when you look at the quality of players in our squad I did not see any reason to leave. We have set ourselves goals for this season and beyond and I want to remain part of those plans for the future”.
IRFU Chief Executive Philip Browne responded: “The policy of the IRFU has always been to endeavour to keep our leading players in Ireland where their wellbeing can be carefully managed.
"This has been a significant element in our recent success and will continue to be just as important in the future for Irish rugby. The news of Brian’s commitment comes at a very important time as we build to next year’s RBS Six Nations and Rugby World Cup.
"The IRFU are delighted that Brian will remain in Ireland with Leinster for a further four years and this is another endorsement of the structures that are in place at both provincial and international level,” said Browne.
Mick Dawson, chief executive of Leinster Rugby, was also chuffed at the announcement: “Brian’s decision to commit his long term future to Leinster Rugby is great news for the team and all of our supporters.
"To have a player of Brian’s standing and ability making such an important decision shows that he shares our goals for the future. This announcement is an important step to building on last season and I am sure that I speak for all Leinster fans when I say I am delighted at this news.”
