Ian Madigan: Schmidt did try to persuade me to stay in Ireland

As he enters the final weeks of his contract with Leinster, Irish out-half Ian Madigan yesterday revealed how Joe Schmidt attempted to persuade him to remain playing in Ireland.

Andy Farrell

Schmidt was eager for the 27-year-old to remain closer to home, but even though Madigan admitted that he wouldn’t be leaving if he was starting for Leinster on a regular basis, he believes that moving to Bordeaux (and France’s Top 14) is the best option for him going forward.

“The conversation I had with Joe, he made it clear to me that he wants me to stay in Ireland, and ultimately it’s where we want Irish players playing. The IRFU have access to you, they can manage you, you’re not overplayed, the fantastic medical facilities we have here,” Madigan remarked at the ‘Drop kick for your Club’ launch at the Aviva Stadium.