Reddan looks to Wales for inspiration

SCRUM-HALF Eoin Reddan is thrilled by the idea of Pat Howard becoming the next Ireland coach after looking to Wales for inspiration on what a new management team can achieve.

Former Leicester coach and Wallaby centre Howard has been installed as the bookies’ favourite to succeed Eddie O’Sullivan, who resigned on Wednesday. Howard, who quit the Tigers after guiding them to a Premiership and EDF Energy Cup double last season, is currently employed as the manager of the Australian Rugby Football Union’s high performance unit.

The 34-year-old is reportedly poised to step down from the post in order to spend more time with his family, dampening prospects of a move to Dublin. But Reddan’s interest remains piqued after a discussion with Ireland team-mate Geordan Murphy, who played under and alongside Howard at Welford Road.