Leinster sign Keogh

Leinster Rugby have announced the signing of Munster back row forward Stephen Keogh for this summer on a two-year deal.

Leinster Chief Executive Mick Dawson commented: "We are delighted to be able to sign a player of Stephen's calibre after successfully competing for his signature from a number of overseas clubs.

"Given the gap soon to be felt by Eric Miller's retirement, it was important that we recruited someone of an equally high standard. Stephen is a young and aggressive player who will add greater competition to the backrow."

Leinster coach Michael Cheika added: "I'm really happy that we have secured Stephen's signature. I have seen him play this year and I have been impressed with his consistently high level of performance.

"I think that he will be an excellent and valuable addition to our team and he will give us a strong, competitive backrow. He is a quality player who will compete heavily at provincial level and beyond."

Name: Stephen Keogh

Position: Back Row

Club: Shannon

School: St Munchin's College

Date of Birth: 10/05/1982

Height: 6'3"

Weight: 112kg

Munster Caps: 49

Munster Debut: v Glasgow, October 2003

Celtic League Caps: 37

Celtic League Debut: v Glasgow, Hughenden, Oct. 2003

Heineken Cup Caps: 9

Heineken Cup Debut: December 2003

Representative Hons: Ireland Schools, Under-19, Under-21