Boost for Munster as key backroom trio pen deals

THREE of Munster’s integral coaching staff have followed top man Tony McGahan’s lead by extending their contracts with the province, it emerged yesterday.

Head coach McGahan signed on last November until 2012 and the Magners League champions have confirmed that forwards coach Lawrie Fisher, backs coach Jason Holland and manager Shaun Payne have also penned new deals.

While the lengths of their respective contracts were not confirmed, McGahan said the coaching ticket will be in place “for the forseeable future”.

The Australian described the retention of the trio’s services as “great news” for Munster, who are once again battling on dual fronts, as they are in the shake-up for a Magners League playoff spot and have a home Heineken Cup quarter-final to come against Northampton Saints.

“The management here are working hard to challenge the playing group and provide an environment where success can be achieved,” said McGahan.

“I believe that continuity and stability are vital to this ambition. So to have Shaun, Laurie and Jason sign for the foreseeable future is great news for Munster Rugby.

“Their work ethic, professionalism and knowledge of the game has been an integral part of this club’s ethos and I’m delighted we’ll be continuing our work together.”

Meanwhile, Payne added that negotiations regarding player contracts were progressing positively, and he expected to be in a position to clarify the situation towards the end of the month.

“Rather than deal with contract renewals on a player-to-player basis, I think it better to deal with the issue collectively,” said Payne.

“People like Tony and myself have been away on a break, so too some of the players, some are still abroad. But we’re happy with the way things are progressing in that regard and hopefully will be able to announce our squad plans after the RBS Six Nations has concluded.”