Ford to quit Irish post for Saracens

IRELAND defensive coach Mike Ford is quitting the national side to join English club side Saracens.

Ford, who joined the Irish team set-up in January 2002, will end his contract after the Permanent TSB November International series.

The IRFU are commencing a recruitment campaign to appoint a successor to the former Wigan, Castleford and Warrington rugby league player.