“The role will see the incoming Ireland defence coach provide support to head coach Anthony Foley and his coaching group on a part-time basis over the next four months.”

Munster have struggled since the start of the season and an abysmal performance against Stade Francais on Saturday has increased the pressure on head coach Anthony Foley.

Former Munster star Alan Quinlan described their performance in the 27-7 defeat as 'borderline disgraceful'.

We have been looking for additional support for our coaching staff,” said Munster Rugby CEO Garrett Fitzgerald. “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."

It was announced last week that former England assistant coach Farrell was to take over as Ireland’s defence coach after the Six Nations, but this role will see him getting involved in Irish rugby sooner than he thought.

Farrell has been assistant coach with England from 2011 to 2015 as well as defence coach for the 2013 Series winning Lions squad.

Previous to joining the England set-up, he coached Aviva Premiership side Saracens.

Online reaction to news of a role at Munster for the Englishman has been generally positive.

If the rumours are true, I don't see any issue with Andy Farrell being installed as Munster defence coach until the end of the season #SUAF

— Eric Fitzgerald. 🇵🇸 🏳️‍⚧️ (@mrericfitz) January 12, 2016

Andy Farrell to be announced in interim role with Munster today I'm hearing...he's definitely impressed someone in IRFU it seems...

— Mark Breen (@mark_breen) January 12, 2016