Kidney poised to replace Ella

DECLAN KIDNEY will replace Gary Ella as Leinster coach within the next few days after the Australian stepped down from his post yesterday.

Despite having already signed a contract to coach the Gwent Dragons next season, and the Welsh club’s strenuous denials yesterday that Kidney was about to jump ship, it appears that some delicate negotiations will allow the former Munster and Irish assistant coach join up with Leinster.

Kidney is believed to be the players’ choice for the job and while the Dragons will be disappointed to lose the Corkman’s services, it’s believed that Lyn Howells of the soon to be defunct Celtic Warriors will take up the post at Rodney Parade.