Lam can’t wait for MacGinty reunion

PAT Lam is relishing a reunion with Sale’s AJ MacGinty when he joins Bristol next summer.

The fly-half played a pivotal role as Connacht, coached by Lam, won the PRO12 title in 2016. And the United States Test player arrives at Ashton Gate for next season as a player Bristol boss Lam not only knows well, but rates extremely highly.

“First and foremost, AJ is an excellent team person. It’s all about the team,” Lam said.

“By being a good person and a good communicator - and obviously being a world-class rugby player - it is exactly what you want from a 10, and being able to drive the game.

“You know the guys will look up to him and respect him, and he will fit in nicely.

“His fundamental skills are excellent. He has obviously got a very good kicking game, but he is also a big defender.”

Restrictions around the number of players who were not eligible for Ireland appearing in Irish provincial rugby meant that MacGinty could not remain at Connacht, and he headed to Sale - helped by a telephone call from Lam.

“When he wasn’t allowed to stay, I rang most of the Premiership directors of rugby because I knew them and I knew he would be good in the Premiership,” Lam added.

“The first guy to take him up was Steve Diamond (at Sale). Steve flew him over, and 24 hours later he signed him.

“I think playing in the Premiership at a good Sale team, the experience of playing week in and week out in the Premiership and international rugby at World Cups has helped develop his game.

“He will add real value to us.”