Gordon D’Arcy column

Leinster and Munster’s comprehensive Champions Cup defeats to Toulon and Leicester last weekend served as another example of how the provinces are continuing to regress in Europe while the financially stronger English and French clubs look set to enjoy their own sustained period of continental dominance.

In his column today Gordon D'Arcy suggests that in order for the provinces to become serial winners again they must first learn how to lose: "Because losing, as much as winning, is a habit. There are ways to lose, just like there are ways to win."

D’Arcy shines a light on the mentality instilled into Leinster by Michael Cheika, one which the current crop need to develop if they are to become a force at European rugby’s top table once again, he writes: “We didn’t fully change into winners until 2009 – for Leinster and Ireland. There followed four years when losing did not enter the equation.

“We refused to accept it. If we lost, the victors would have the scars – both mentally and physically – to prove it. You had to pry victory from us. Beat us into the ground because we would never submit.”

Murray wants new Munster deal

There has been some good news for Munster fans however after Ireland and Lions scrumhalf Conor Murray confirmed he wishes to stay with the province beyond the end of his current contract and hopes to sign a new deal to keep him at Thomond Park, he said: ""I make no bones about it. This is a great club, a great set-up. It's my home and there's an unbelievable set-up here. It's almost a no-brainer, I'd love to continue playing here."

Connacht player request denied

Connacht's request to add to backs to their injury-ravaged squad for Sunday's Challenge Cup fixture against Newcastle has been rejected by the EPCR, leaving Pat Lam with just 21-players at his disposal.

McGregor at Croke Park unlikely to happen

Meanwhile Conor McGregor's dream of defending his UFC featherweight crown at Croke Park is unlikely to ever become a reality, with any potential fight needing to be timed to suit an American pay-per-view audience.

As Malachy Clerkin writes, a potential McGregor fight at GAA HQ would need to be staged at 10pm east-coast time in America, which is 3.00am in Dublin, and UFC president Dana White has already raised doubts over whether it could ever happen.

Alan Brogan announces retirement

Elsewhere Dublin footballer Alan Brogan has announced his inter-county retirement after 14 seasons. The three-time All Star won three All-Ireland medals and 11 Leinster titles as well as making 70 Championship appearances.

Chelsea players can feel betrayed by Mourinho

One of the hallmarks of Jose Mourinho’s great sides, particularly in his first spell at Chelsea and at Inter Milan, was that his squad would do anything for him, and there was an unbreakable bond between the manager and his players.

However this is something which is clearly missing form his current side as they continue one of the worst title defences in living memory - and Daniel Taylor suggests his players have every right to feel betrayed by Mourinho.

Coneygree can be tempted to Leopardstown

Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Coneygree could be lured to Leopardstown for the Lexus Chase on St Stephen’s Day rather than take on Don Cossack and Vautour in the King George at Kempton.