Ruddock intends to stay with Worcester

Mar 22 2008 by Paul Abbandonato, Western Mail

MIKE RUDDOCK last night insisted he had unfinished business in the Guinness Premiership and was ready to spurn any approach from Ireland to make him their new coach.

But the former Wales Grand Slam-winning coach did concede the idea of returning to coach in Ireland again one day did appeal to him.

Ruddock, who had a successful spell in charge of Leinster and Ireland A, was installed as one of the favourites for the Irish job after Eddie O’Sullivan’s reign ended.

Ruddock says he is flattered by the link, but maintains he is focused on his job of steering Worcester Warriors away from the Guinness relegation spots.

Many pundits insist Ruddock is No 1 on the Ireland short-list, following the impressive work he did across the water and here with Wales.

But Ruddock says he is happy at Worcester and intends to see out the remaining two years on his contract.

“I am contracted with Worcester Warriors and am thoroughly enjoying myself here in the Guinness Premiership,” insisted Ruddock.

“I have another two years left on my contract and I would like to see that job through if I could.”

But Ruddock, right, admitted, “I’m flattered to be linked with the post, that’s for sure.

“I have got a huge regard for Irish rugby. At some stage in the future it would be great to get back to Ireland. I like Ireland and like working with the people there.

“Whether it’s at club level, regional level, or in the future, if the Irish Rugby Union consider me at some stage as an option for the national team, that would be fantastic.”

Ireland have begun the hunt for a new coach after the team’s flop under O’Sullivan in the World Cup and the 2008 Six Nations.

Ruddock said, “I have got a huge regard for Eddie O'Sullivan. If you look at his record as Ireland coach, it is impressive and I guess it’s a sad day.

“Unfortunately, that’s the way of the modern professional coach. You are judged on results and you are only as good as your last game.

“Unfortunately, the last year hasn’t been as good as Eddie would have liked.

“Eddie will be a very proud man. He needs to walk tall, hold his head up high because his record as a coach is quite spectacular really in terms of the amount of games he has won as a coach at international level.”