Galwey says Kidney is right choice

FORMER skipper Michael Galwey has backed Declan Kidney’s re-appointment as Munster coach.

“I worked with Declan for many years, his heart is in the right place, he knows the players, knows the system, knows the problems and how to solve them. It’s a great decision by the Munster Branch.”

Galwey also believes Kidney’s time away from the province - with Ireland and Leinster - will work to Munster’s advantage.

“I think there could be a huge benefit in that, every coach learns as they go along and he has been involved in two very high profile positions.

“That should allow him bring back some fresh ideas to Munster and that might be all that is needed because they’re still not too far off the mark despite the defeat by Biarritz.

“There are a few players reaching the end, but a hell of a lot of guys still in their prime and others only coming into their prime. There is nobody better than Declan to get the best out of his players.”

These days, Galwey is coaching director of Shannon and is intent on developing a career in that direction. To that end he has not ruled himself out of playing some role with Munster.

“Right now my commitment is to Shannon, I haven’t discussed anything other than the fact that I plan to be with the club again next season.

“When you’re involved, you want to be able to coach at the highest level but I’m taking just one step at a time. This is my first season with Shannon and it’s different to playing but I’m enjoying it. In that sense, yes, I want more of it. Ultimately, I would love to be involved with some professional side because that’s the biggest challenge and professional sides don’t come much better than Munster.

“The most important thing is to get experience at club level - and so far I have learned a lot. It’s not professional stuff but the players are hungry for success. They’re learning from me and I’m certainly learning from them.”

In the coming days and weeks, Kidney will give thought to and come to a decision on the make-up of his coaching team. With Shannon commitments, Galwey’s not waiting by the phone, but the impression is that he would answer positively if a call came.