Trimble signs new Ireland contract as Hogan bows out

ULSTER back Andrew Trimble has joined the list of players committing his future to Irish rugby after signing a new Ireland international contract that will keep him at Ravenhill until the end of the 2012-13 season.

On the day when former Ireland, Leinster and Munster lock Trevor Hogan was forced to call time on his career due to a knee injury at the age of 31, Trimble secured his prospects for the next two years as he joined provincial team-mate and fellowIreland international Stephen Ferris in signing an Ireland international contract until 2013.

Ireland and Leinster prop Cian Healy put pen to paper on a new deal last week, while Munster pair Ronan O’Gara and Donncha O’Callaghan struck new deals last month. However, IRFU chief executive Philip Browne this week warnedg stars such as Leinster trio Jamie Heaslip, Sean O’Brien and Jonathan Sexton, all coveted by French clubs, that his organisation would not be held to ransom in a battle for their services.

In that context, a new deal for the 31-cap Trimble, 26, was warmly welcomed by national head coach Declan Kidney.

“It is great news that the IRFU and Andrew have come to an agreement that allows him to continue his playing career in Ireland with Ulster,” Kidney said.

Trimble said: “Ulster and Irish rugby are going from strength to strength and my decision to stay in Ireland was to make sure I was part of that. We have some big games coming up, so I am really happy that I was able to agree my new contract before we went into the busy period. As well as the challenges we have in the Heineken Cup and Magners League coming up, I was conscious that I also wanted to concentrate on playing as well as possible here with Ulster so I can challenge for a place with Ireland ahead of the Six Nations and the World Cup this year.”

There was grimmer news further south yesterday when Leinster confirmed the retirement with immediate effect of their lock, Hogan.

The Tipperary native, capped four times by Ireland, played 57 times for Munster before moving to Leinster in mid-2006 and playing 59 times before a knee injury ended his career, his final game, and only appearance of the season coming against the Dragons in November.

“It’s been a tough battle over the last couple of seasons with my injury but after my last game the problem worsened to the point where I couldn’t continue.

“It is never an easy thing to accept but I’m thankful for all the support from my teammates and the medical, management and coaching staff at Leinster, as well as Dr Ray Moran who has helped me greatly over the past few years.

“It was an honour to play for Leinster over the last number of years and I would like to thank all the supporters for their backing over my career.”

Leinster chief executive Mick Dawson paid tribute to Hogan, adding: “It is always a sad day when professional players call a premature end to their careers, but Trevor can reflect on a successful career in the blue of Leinster, red of Munster and green of Ireland with real pride.”