Connacht sign Irish trio
Tue, 06 May 2008 18:40
There was a triple boosts for Connacht on Monday, with the signing of three Irish players as they look to the future.
Connacht confirmed on Tuesday the signings of Leinster backs Fionn Carr and Ian Keatley - who will both be moving west - and scrumhalf Frank Murphy, who will be returning to Ireland from Leicester Tigers in the forthcoming season.
The 22-year-old Carr, who can play at centre, wing or fullback and 21-year-old flyhalf, Keatley, are two highly rated young players who Connacht CEO Gerry Kelly sees as having great potential who are sure to benefit Connacht in the coming season.
"We're delighted to announce that we've signed two exciting prospects for the coming season" he said.
"Fionn and Ian have both shown great ability at age group levels for Ireland and it is our hope we will develop them into future Irish internationals."
Kelly was equally pleased with the signing of 26-year-old Frank Murphy from Leicester Tigers. Murphy brings with him a wealth of experience having previously played with Munster and Kelly is anticipating an increased level of competition for first team appearances come the beginning of the 2008/09 season.
"Frank Murphy will provide an experienced link between our forward pack and these young backs. With Frank, Conor O'Loughlin and Kieran Campbell we should have great competition for the scrumhalf berth and the ability to vary our game to all conditions and opposition."
