Leinster players stand by their man

THE Leinster squad last night issued a statement in support of beleaguered coach Gary Ella, just days after a number of them complained to a newspaper about the Australian’s 10-month reign at the province.

Following a specially convened meeting of the Leinster squad, chaired by captain Reggie Corrigan, branch chief executive Mick Dawson confirmed that the 42-year-old head coach had the full support of all his playing staff.

The tacit support of the playing squad for Ella comes as something of a surprise, especially following a weekend article in The Sunday Times which contained damning quotes about the Australian's management skills from a number of unnamed senior Leinster players.