The IRFU have named Andy Farrell as replacement for Les Kiss as Ireland defensive coach.
Farrell will take up the role after the upcoming Six Nations.
Speaking regarding the appointment, Joe Schmidt hailed Farrell's experience.
It's great to have Andy coming into our coaching team. 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.
Farrell, who was part of the England back room team under Stuart Lancaster, was released from the role following the appointment of Eddie Jones as head coach.
The former England rugby league player has been handed a three-and-a-half year deal which runs until the end of the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan.
Farrell's appointment definitely has the Brian O'Driscoll seal of approval.
So Andy Farrell new @IrishRugby defence coach! Decent business that. Very good coach and motivator. Expect line speed & great kick chase.
— Brian O'Driscoll (@BrianODriscoll) January 6, 2016
Farrell's predecessor, Les Kiss, who was appointed in 2009 by Declan Kidney, has taken up the role of Ulster Director of Rugby.
Like Farrell, Kiss also had a background in rugby league.
Picture credit: Stephen McCarthy / SPORTSFILE
