Leinster can make it three in-a-row, says Richards

Dean Richards believes Leinster can become the first side to win the Heineken Cup three seasons in-a-row.

Richards coached Leicester Tigers to successive European victories in 2001 and 2002, the only club to retain the title until Leinster beat Ulster in the final last May.

Leicester’s bid for a hat-trick of successes was ended by Munster at the quarter-final stage in 2003 but Richards, who now coaches Newcastle Falcons after serving a three-year ban for his part in the Harlequins ‘Bloodgate’ controversy, believes Joe Schmidt’s men have what it takes to make history.