Eddie O'Sullivan's contract as manager of the Irish rugby team has been extended by four years, the IRFU announced this morning.
The amendment means that O'Sullivan will be in charge of the Irish team until after the Six Nations Championship in 2008 and will lead the team into another Wold Cup in 2007.
"Our decision reflects a job very well done and our desire that Eddie should be given the scope and support to further consolidate his role as national coach through to 2008" said Philip Browne, chief executive of the IRFU said.
"We believe it is a timely expression of our confidence in the coach and his players as they prepare to depart to Australia for the upcoming Rugby World Cup.
Commenting on the news O'Sullivan said the extension will now allow him to plan ahead with the same backing from the union that he has enjoyed to date.
"I am greatly honoured that the IRFU should invite me to further extend my coaching contract," said O'Sullivan. "I have enjoyed the full backing of the Union over the past two years and the additional faith they are now showing in me is a wonderful statement of the support and confidence which enables me to plan for the National team into the long term future."