News

O'Sullivan to coach Biarritz?

October 01 2008

According to reports in the Irish Press, former Ireland coach Eddie O'Sullivan was spotted in Biarritz earlier this week, sparking speculation that he may replace the Basques' embattled coaching team.

Could O'Sullivan - who was Ireland Head Coach for six years and who has been without a coaching position since the end of the last Six Nations - be the next coach of Biarritz?

According to Irish daily The Examiner, O'Sullivan flew to the French coastal city on Tuesday for talks with powerbrokers at the famous club, owned by millionaire businessman Marcel Martin. While nothing has been put on paper, the possibility of a new coach being signed at Biarritz is more than plausible.

O'Sullivan has expressed his desire in recent months to return to top-flight coaching and the Corkman has also been linked with the vacant Director of Rugby post at Ospreys.

French champions in 2002, 2005 and 2006, Biarritz have since had a downward trend in their fortunes and the departure of coach Patrice Lagisquet at the end of last season was seen as the opportunity for a 'revival.'

Unfortunately not everything has gone to plan as former assistant coaches Jacques Delmas and Jack Isaac, who are now at the helm, have reportedly been given an ultimatum of three games to produce results after some dismal performances on the road this season.

Last weekend Biarritz suffered a humiliating 32-6 defeat away to Clermont Auvergne - their third loss in six matches. The result was followed a a meeting early on Sunday morning, where the riot act was reportedly read by the Biarritz bosses.

BO have one of the biggest budgets in French rugby and were expected to challenge for Heineken Cup honours as well this season. They face in-form Montpellier this Saturday.

Despite rumblings behind the scenes, senior players such as Jerome Thion and Imanol Harinordoquy have continued to back their under-fire coaching team.