Clarke is new elite development coach for Ireland

Ulster assistant coach Allen Clarke will step down from his position to become the the IRFU's Elite Player Development Manager.

It is another step up in the carrer of the former Ulster hooker. He will be charged with overseeing the delivery of the High Performance Strategies of the IRFU.

Ulster Rugby Chief Executive Michael Reid said: "The IRFU have made an excellent choice in Allen Clarke as their new Elite Player Development Manager.

"He is hugely motivated and has a real interest in the advancement of players and I have no doubt that with his appetite for hard work, he will relish the challenges ahead in his new role. I'd like to take this opportunity to thank Allen, on behalf of all at Ulster Rugby, for his hard work and commitment over the past number of years.

"His appointment is extremely encouraging for us, as a province striving to develop not only our players but also our coaches and administrators, and he takes with him, our very best wishes for the future".