News

Brugnaut signs for Munster

July 30 2009

Munster have signed French international prop Julien Brugnaut from relegated Dax, the first Frenchman ever to play in the red jersey.

Brugnaut can play on both sides of the scrum and thus fills the gap left both by the retiring Federico Pucciarello and the departing Tim Ryan.

"It is the first time we have had a French international in the squad," said Munster CEO Garrett Fitzgerald to the Irish Examiner.

"We are delighted to be able to attract a player of Julien's quality and I believe it is a move that will reap dividends for both Munster and the player himself."

Brugnaut flew into Limerick with his agent, Miguel Fernandez, yesterday morning to meet with Munster officials before agreeing terms on a one-year deal with the option to remain for a second season.

"I was immediately impressed with what I saw and heard," said Brugnaut.

"It is a very professional set-up. I am of course well aware of Munster and their great history in the Heineken Cup and I am very happy to be joining them and look forward to the challenge."

The news is all good for Munster, with Doug Howlett, Jerry Flannery and Tomas O'Leary all making good progress with injuries.

Flannery and O'Leary, who missed the B&I Lions tour with torn elbow ligaments and a fractured ankle respectively, are both recovering ahead of schedule, with O'Leary now scheduled to be back in action by November. Flannery should be ready by the start of the season.