Munster set to sign Devlin before deadline

MUNSTER expect to sign the former Ireland U21 international Paul Devlin before the Heineken Cup registration deadline on Thursday, according to the Evening Echo newspaper.

The 23-year-old wing arrived in the country on Sunday and underwent a medical yesterday.

“It looks as if we will run with this one,” declared coach Alan Gaffney. Devlin declined a new contract with English Rugby League club Widnes, who just avoided relegation, because of “the lack of movement and progression”.

Devlin, 6ft and 15 stone, represented England at U18 and U19 levels in the union game before playing for Ireland U21s, qualifying because his father was born in Dublin. His career has alternated between Sale in Union and Widnes in league.

Meanwhile, the Echo also revealed Jim Williams is out of the team to play Llanelli in the Celtic League at Thomond Park on Sunday, kick-off, 5.15pm.

He hasn’t fully recovered after damaging his elbow in the 17-15 defeat by Leinster.