The timing feels right as Simon Zebo returns to Munster and onto Ireland radar

Zebo's switch back to Limerick has been “co-funded” by the province and an IRFU spared the expense of a contract for the retiring CJ Stander

HOMEWARD-BOUND: Simon Zebo’s return to Munster from Racing 92 works on every level. Like Ireland head coach Andy Farrell, Johann van Graan’s hand has only been strengthened by this news and, as was seen in their PRO14 final loss to Leinster recently, Munster still need all the help they can get if they are to earn some silverware. Picture: David Rogers/Getty Images

Ireland never seemed to drift far from Simon Zebo’s thoughts.

It was mere months into his three-year stint in Paris with Racing 92 when he spoke to a contingent of Irish media at the futuristic U Arena back in 2018. This was the night he wagged a taunting finger at Ulster’s Michael Lowry while crossing the try line.