Murphy considers options

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By Rachel Griffiths   Last updated: 10th March 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Murphy considers options

Murphy: Considering options

It's a good offer and the club were happy to put it on the table. I'm just trying to iron out the details.

Geordan Murphy
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Ireland full-back Geordan Murphy is on the brink of sealing a new three-year deal with Leicester as he sets his sights on next year's World Cup.

Tigers' decision to offer the 31-year-old skipper such a lengthy deal suggests a major vote of confidence for Murphy, who has recently returned to the Ireland team after being sidelined from Test duty for almost a year with a dislocated shoulder.

Ireland coach Declan Kidney's decision to retain Murphy and leave Rob Kearney on the bench for Saturday's RBS Six Nations clash against Wales at Croke Park has provided the full-back with a further lift.

Determined

Murphy hopes his style of play will enable him to stay involved with rugby at the highest level, and he is determined to be a part of the World Cup in New Zealand next year.

"Leicester have offered me a three-year deal after this season and I'm talking about that with them at the moment," said Murphy.

"It's a good offer and the club were happy to put it on the table. I'm just trying to iron out the details.

"I'm 31 now, so the new contract would take me to 35. The way I play the game helps. I've never been a big-bosh monster.

"I don't run into people and don't try to make any massive hits. I just try to get by with what I've been given. I'm playing well and enjoying my rugby.

"I missed my first World Cup (in 2003) through injury and in the last one I didn't see a lot of game time.

"I certainly want to be involved in the next one. I'll do whatever I can to get to that World Cup.

"Hopefully I'll be good enough to go, whether that's as a squad player or a starter. I feel like I'm good enough."

Concerned

Murphy was concerned over his future in Test rugby after undergoing a shoulder reconstruction last September, and despite being back to fitness, he has a new challenge to contend with in seeing off competition from fellow Lion Kearney.

"Rob is world class player and I give full credit to him for everything he's done in the last few years," said Murphy.

"And there's more to come from him - he can get better. Hopefully the rivalry will be good for each other."