Munster sign up Tigers' Murphy
Tue, 02 Feb 2010 10:35
Munster-bound: Leicester Tigers wing Johne Murphy.
Irish flyer Johne Murphy is set to quit Welford Road in the summer and join Magners League giants Munster in a bid to improve his chances of securing a spot in Declan Kidney’s 2011 World Cup squad.
Murphy, 25, has been at Leicester for five years and has established himself as a powerful and reliable finisher for the defending Guinness Premiership Champions.
An Ireland ‘A’ international, Murphy was discovered by former Tigers chief scout Dusty Hare and is widely tipped to crack the nod for a full international call up sooner rather than later.
Speaking to the Leicester Mercury, Tigers Director of Rugby Richard Cockerill confirmed that Murphy would be leaving the club.
While he admits that they would love to have held on to him, Cockerill revealed that there had been no negotiations done as the player was intent on returning to Ireland.
"He nearly went back to join Ulster last year but decided to stay with us," said Cockerill.
"He has been here five years so it's disappointing because he has come through our system.
"But he thinks he is served better internationally by being in Ireland. It's happened to us before with Irish guys and a couple of French players, but that's up to him.
"Johne has made his decision and that is fine. We wish him well, he has done well for us. We thank him for his time and move on."
Murphy's arrival could well signal the end of Kiwi Doug Howlett's stay at Thomond Park. There has been speculation for months now that the All Black flyer could well return to his homeland in order to try and earn a place in their 2011 World Cup squad but nothing has been confirmed by either the player or the Province so far.
Contact Us | Terms and Conditions | Privacy Policy | Advertising
