MAX DEEGAN SIGNS NEW CONTRACT WITH LEINSTER, ED BYRNE AGREES CARDIFF MOVE

LEINSTER HAVE CONFIRMED that Max Deegan has agreed a new contract with the province.

The 27-year-old will remain at the club where he has spent his entire career since making his debut in 2016.

Deegan’s eight-year association will now be extended after also reaching a century of appearances earlier this season.

Meanwhile, prop Ed Byrne is set to leave the province after more than decade to join Cardiff next season.

The centurion, who has also won six Ireland caps, will move to Arms Park ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.

The 30-year-old won five league titles and a Champions Cup at Leinster but has been a fringe player in recent years, and has made just two starts and three substitute appearances this season.

“It’s great to be able to bring someone of Ed’s quality and experience into our squad as we continue to build,” Cardiff head coach Matt Sherratt said.

“I have a very clear picture of our game model and Ed matches that, whilst also being able to add experience and help mentor our younger lads.

“With a young squad and a number of experienced players retiring or moving on, Ed will bring all of his knowledge and experience from a top-level winning environment.

“He is a member of Leinster’s leadership group and I have spoken to a number of his coaches from over the years and they could not speak highly enough of his qualities as a player and person.

“To play at Leinster for a decade and gain six Ireland caps shows Ed is a top-quality player.”

– Additional reporting by Niall Kelly

2024-05-07T12:49:10Z dg43tfdfdgfd