Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Cullen the shots for a bit longer
LEINSTER’S latest era of success looks fair set to continue, with Leo Cullen and Stuart Lancaster agreeing new deals.
Cullen, who was appointed as head coach ahead of the 2015-16 campaign, has signed on until the end of the 2021-21 season.
The 41-year-old is the only man to have won the Champions Cup as a player and a manager – a feat he completed last season when Leinster beat Racing 92 in the final in Bilbao.
Leinster CEO Mick Dawson said: “Not only did Leo oversee the great double success of last season, he also oversaw the rebuilding of the playing squad.
“We’ve seen the impact Leo has had on the organisation and are thrilled to see him commit for a further two seasons.
“That level of continuity is crucial for the model that we have – a model that Leo not only believes in, but is a product of.”
No time period has been put on the new deal for in-demand Lancaster, the province’s senior coach.
But this news should mean he will not be linking up again with Andy Farrell at the start of his reign as Ireland boss after the World Cup.
Dawson added: “Everyone can see that we have benefited from Stuart’s vast experience working within the academy system in England, plus of course his time with the English national team.
“He has consistently shown his commitment to the Leinster cause and it is a real boost to retain the services of a world class coach.”