Bradley to leave Connacht

Bradley: Leaving Connacht

Related links

Teams

• Connacht

Also see

• Sky Sports experts
• Rugby on Sky
• Live scores
• Video highlights

Connacht will have a new man at the helm for next season after they announced Michael Bradley will step down as director of rugby at the end of the current campaign.

Bradley took over the reins at Connacht in 2003, however both parties have agreed the time is right to part company.

And Connacht have revealed that they have opted to make the announcement now to allow them to find a new director of rugby, and Bradley to secure a position elsewhere.

Bradley, who led Ireland to Australia and New Zealand in 2008 as the interim coach before the arrival of Declan Kidney, told the club's official website: "I am grateful for the support I have received from CEO Gerry Kelly, the coaches, office staff and particular the players since arriving here in 2003.

"Whilst not achieving the consistency in performance that all directors of rugby crave, Connacht has had some fantastic nights especially in the Sportsground and these are great memories.

"I would also like pay a special thanks to the Connacht supporters. They are an inspiration to our team and long may it continue.

"To the current squad there is a lot of rugby to be played this season. To qualify for the Heineken Cup would be a great way to sign off."

Progress

Chief executive Kelly paid tribute to the work of Bradley but admitted it was time for a change.

"Michael has done tremendous work since coming here," he added.

"It has been a huge benefit to Connacht to have a coach in charge who has coached the Irish U20s, Ireland A and the Irish senior side for the tour of New Zealand and Australia last year.

"Connacht Rugby has made huge strides since the advent of the professional era and Michael Bradley has led that progress for the past seven years.

"The number of players who have come through and gone to play at the highest level is testimony to that great work.

"It is now time for a change and we are making the announcement at this time to allow us time to find a replacement and to allow Michael ample time to weigh up his own options.

"I would like to pay tribute to Michael Bradley for all he has done for Connacht Rugby and wish him well in his career, and I look forward to continue to work with him for the remainder of this season."