Ireland coach Eddie O'Sullivan is thrilled by Brian Carney's defection from rugby league and insists the former Wigan winger has the talent to make an impact in union.

Carney (30) switched codes yesterday after agreeing a two-year contract with European champions Munster, who have included him in their squad for the knockout stages of the Heineken Cup.

O'Sullivan said: "It's great Brian has signed. We knew Munster had been trying to sign him for a while.

"It looked like it might not happen at one point because he went to Australia to play league, but they've pulled it off.

"He's a very impressive footballer. It's a great opportunity because Munster have a good run-in to the end of the season and he can establish himself in union.

"It will be a big test for him. I don't know him personally but I'm looking forward to seeing where he goes from here.

"It's exciting for Munster to get their hands on a player of his calibre."