Italy’s attack coach Mike Catt has been tipped to join Ireland at the conclusion of this year’s Rugby World Cup. The 47-year-old has worked with the Azzurri since 2016 after previous spells with London Irish and as England’s backs coach.
The former England star will be reunited with Andy Farrell, who is set to replace Joe Schmidt as Ireland head coach after the Japan showpiece. Catt will join the likes of John Fogarty, who is leaving Leinster to work as the Irish scrum coach, while Simon Easterby is continuing in his role as forwards’ specialist. Richie Murphy will remain as kicking and skills coach as the men in green look to build on recent success.
Catt has been working with Conor O’Shea in the Italy set-up but the duo have been unable to influence results, with the men in blue struggling to compete in the Six Nations. He will find things easier with Ireland, however, as the 2018 Grand Slam winners have a talented squad and the confidence to compete with most teams.
