Andy Farrell accepts Ireland coaching role

Former England assistant Andy Farrell will join Ireland's coaching staff in June after agreeing a four-year deal to work under Joe Schmidt.

Farrell left his role with England following the departure of Stuart Lancaster after England's dismal Rugby World Cup performance, but has returned to work quickly with the Six Nations champions.

The 40-year-old will begin his job as Ireland's new defence coach ahead of their tour of South Africa in June, with his deal running until after the 2019 World Cup.

Farrell commented: "To have this opportunity to work with a very talented management and playing group really excites me.

"With a wealth of top-class experienced senior players and a fantastic crop of youngsters pushing hard the future is very positive for Irish rugby and I can't wait to get started."

Head coach Schmidt hopes Farrell's arrival will have a positive impact on his team.

"It's great to have Andy coming into our coaching team," Schmidt said.

"The quality of his delivery and breadth of his experience as well as the positive impact he had when coaching a number of our senior players during the 2013 Lions tour will add real value for us."