Holland believes Beirne could be the missing link for Munster

EXPERIENCED Munster lock Billy Holland believes that the arrival of Tadhg Beirne could be one of the missing links as they bid to end their longest period in the professional era since winning silverware.

Munster have not lifted a title since winning their third league crown in 2011 but Holland reckons they are building a serious squad.

He made his debut back in September 2007 and has seen good and bad times since then.

Beirne will add competition in the second-row but Holland is ready for the challenge and reckons the capture of the recently-capped Irish international is a big boost.

“The more players of quality who come into our squad the better. To really compete, you need 30 top-class players with two guys at least for each position throughout the season.

“Tadhg certainly showed what he could so last season. Competition is so important, there are now five second-rows going to compete for two positions and one on the bench,” said the 33-year-old.

Holland has chalked up 188 appearances for Munster since arriving on the scene and feels he too can help Beirne develop as they bid to end their barren period.

“I think he is going to bring in great ball skills. You have seen what he can do on the poach, maybe I’ll learn some things off him and maybe he’ll learn a few things off me in terms of the lineout.

“Maybe that’s something he hasn’t developed in his game yet and that’s something I’ll be expected to help him with. It’s exciting to play with him and to compete with him for positions and hopefully making us all play better.”