Carney in line for Ireland’s World Cup challenge

MUNSTER winger Brian Carney could play for Ireland in November’s Rugby League World Cup Finals in Australia.

Thu, 17 Apr, 2008 - 01:00

Carney made his name in league with the likes of Wigan in England and Australian NRL side, Newcastle Knights, and also played for Great Britain. The Cork-born star switched codes last season, joining Munster on a two-year deal in March 2007, and made an immediate impact, but has struggled this season to nail down a permanent spot with his new team.

However, Rugby League Ireland yesterday stated they will be making no approach to Carney while Munster’s involvement in the Heineken Cup continues.

RLI insist they do not want to distract Carney or Munster management in their pursuit of a second Heineken Cup in three seasons.

RLI chiefs are on a recruitment drive ahead of the World Cup and have already secured the services of Pat Richards from Super League side, Wigan, and Brett White, who plays in Australia for Melbourne Storm.

It is likely that RLI will try to secure a release for Brian Carney from his rugby union contract with Munster for the duration of the World Cup tournament — but only after Munster’s interest ends in the Heineken Cup.

“There has been a lot of speculation but no approach has been made to Brian Carney,” said RLI executive director, Niall Cantrell.

“Every player who is prepared to put on a jersey for Ireland is of interest to us but sometimes a player has to put up his hand first.

“I’m very conscious of the fact of wanting to make sure there are no distractions from our point of view on Munster’s attempts to win the European Cup.

I wouldn’t want any misrepresentations to that effect. He will have to concentrate and do his best for Munster and bring the Heineken Cup home.

“Maybe after that, something could take place, if it was convenient, but not at this moment.”

Cantrell added: “We’re on a recruitment drive for rugby league players of Irish extraction both in the UK and in Australia in particular. And to this day that has been very successful. Pat Richards from Wigan and Brett White, who plays with Melbourne Storm, have put their hand up and stated their desire to play for Ireland.”