Swift in no hurry to exit Connacht

The longest serving player in the RaboDirect PRO12 league is hoping to play for at least another season. Michael Swift, 35, has chalked up a record 156 in the league and has also played 70 games in the Heineken Cup and Amlin Challenge during his 14 seasons with Connacht.

The London- born lock has played in 11 of Connacht’s Pro12 games this season, as well as a couple of Heineken Cup games, and believes he can keep going for at least another season.

“I hope to do another year with Connacht. I am 35 now but I still feel I have something to give to the squad. I am confident that I’ll be around next year,” said Swift.

He said that the departure at the end of the season of Mike McCarthy to Leinster is a big loss to the side, but it also presents an opportunity for others.

“With Mike’s departure it gives the younger guys an opportunity to step up. There will be a slot available there now and the likes of Mick Kearney – who has been excellent lately – and Andrew Browne will be looking to get some more game time.

“Mike is available this weekend. It is a huge bonus for us to have him back. He is one of the linchpins of our team, but to have someone from Connacht involved in an Irish camp and now the team is fantastic.

“His departure is a big loss. Obviously over the years we have built up a great relationship both on and off the field. He will be a loss, but good luck to the guy. The decision is made now and everyone knows where they stand. It will be a huge task to replace a player of his calibre in the squad, but that’s for the people upstairs to worry about.”

Meanwhile, winger Matt Healy, who made his debut in the 17-0 loss to Leinster at the weekend, is likely to be out for three to four weeks after fracturing a bone in his hand.

Flanker Johnny O’Connor also picked up an injury and may not be available for the visit of Dragons on Saturday, but winger Fetu’u Vainikolo is expected to return.

Long-term casualties Mata Fifita and Kyle Tonetti will play for their respective clubs this weekend — Bucanneers and Lansdowne — and the two centres are expected to be available for selection for the Heineken Cup game away to Harlequins on Saturday week.