MIKE RUDDOCK, Leinster's new coaching director, had his initial meeting with the players yesterday morning, when he outlined his aims, objectives, and the means by which he hopes to implement them.

As already announced, Ruddock will have a team of management back-up from Jim Glennon, Ciaran Callan and Paul Dean, who have been the Leinster selection trio for the past two years, with Glennon as manager and Callan as coach.

But Glennon made it clears yesterday that Ruddock, the current Swansea coach, will select the Leinster team. "We will be there as advisers and to give him support and help in way we can, said Glennon.

Around 45 players attended the meeting, but after the Leinster Cup campaign the new squad will be selected, which will number about 35.

Ruddock will start his work with the squad in the last week of May, when the players will be embark on a six-week programme, with fitness a central element.

"I have outlined to the players what I want and the objectives I hope we can attain, said Ruddock, who used a video in part of his presentation to illustrate what he will be trying to convey and achieve. "It will take a lot of hard work, but that must be done if we are to play quality, successful and winning rugby at a high level," he said.

On the challenge embraced in his new role, Ruddock said: "I see it as a great opportunity and I hope we can play a successful style of rugby. A very high degree of fitness is essential to attain that. I think there is an extremely exciting and talented group of young players in the province. We must try to get the very best from them."

Ruddock, who has been a successful coach to the Swansea club - they are in the Welsh Cup final this season - and has also coached the Wales A side, has spoken to Ireland coach Brian Ashton. In common with the other three newly-appointed provincial coaching directors, Ruddock will have in-depth discussions with Ashton as they seek a common objective.