McCall favourite for Ulster job as Solomons departs for Saints

FORMER Ireland international Mark McCall is favourite to be appointed Ulster coach when Alan Solomons leaves for Northampton Saints.

McCall was Solomons' chosen assistant when he took over from European Cup-winning coach Harry Williams in 2001. The IRFU had seen McCall's promise and he was fast-tracked into the Ireland U21 coaching role, beginning last Friday with a 20-20 draw with France.

However, with the financially-stretched IRFU wanting to promote from within, McCall's name will be high on the list when the Ulster Branch start hunting for Solomons's replacement this week.

"We plan to start an internal trawl before looking outside for a replacement," said Ulster Chief Executive Michael Reid. "Hopefully we can make an announcement as soon as possible."

Other contenders will be Leinster assistant Willie Anderson, who failed in his bid to become Ulster coach three years ago, along with former international hooker Allan Clarke, who is in charge of Ulster Elite Player Development. Solomons is in no doubt about his replacement in June.

"I have always been impressed with Mark. I also believe that to sustain success you need continuity, and that continuity with Mark coming in will be important for Ulster. Mark has the ability to take Ulster rugby forward," said Solomons.

"Part of my succession planning was to bring Mark along. I think he has proved himself here at Ulster."

Solomons first spotted McCall when he came out to study the coaching and training methods of the Cape Town -based Stormers four years ago.

McCall, who won 13 caps as an Ireland centre in the '90s, retired prematurely because of a neck injury. He was due to lead Ulster in their European Cup-winning year of 1999 but had to watch from the sidelines as David Humphreys lifted the trophy. As for his departure, Solomons said it tugged at his heart strings.

"The Northern Irish are the finest people I have ever met, and a piece of my heart will always be in the wee country," he said.

"But it's common knowledge that shortly after my arrival I prepared a document entitled 'Vision Ulster' which set out my vision for the future of Ulster Rugby. The strategic goals I set myself have been achieved."

"I have been fortunate to secure a coaching position at Northampton. Whilst I look forward to an exciting challenge it is with a heavy heart that I leave. I have loved every minute of my time here. The support I had from the squad, the management team, the Ulster Branch, the IRFU and the public has been immense. Thank you for three wonderful years."