Bradley named new Edinburgh coach

Rugby:Michael Bradley is "thrilled" and "honoured" to be given the chance to manage Edinburgh and will begin his new role as head coach from the start of next season. He joins the Murrayfield outfit on a two-year-deal.

The 48-year-old, capped 40-times by Ireland, will take over from interim coach Nick Scrivener, who held the role after Rob Moffat's departure.

“I’m honoured and delighted to have been offered the chance to become the head coach at Edinburgh Rugby," said Bradley, who most recently has been working with the Georgia national side.

“I’m excited by the challenge of helping the club fulfil its potential, and I can’t wait to start working with what is a talented squad. I know a lot of the players from my years in the Magners League with Connacht, and I’m well aware of their capabilities.

“I’m looking forward to spending the summer getting to know the club and the job, so that we’re in a position to hit the ground running when the new campaign rolls round.”

As a player, Bradley captained Ireland 13 times and enjoyed Triple Crown success in 1985. The scrumhalf also played in the 1987 and 1995 World Cups. After his first coaching role with home side Cork Constitution, Bradley became head coach of the Ireland under-21 team. He also spent five years as the Ireland 'A' coach.

He was seven years at the helm as Connacht head coach before leaving at the end of last season. He built-up a reputation for nurturing young talent and guided the province to three Amlin Challenge Cup semi-finals.

Edinburgh chief executive Craig Docherty today welcomed Bradley to the club. “Securing Michael’s services as head coach is great news and a real boost ahead of the new campaign," he said. “His experience of building successful teams and bringing through young talent will stand us in very good stead as we seek to continue to build the club. He is a proven leader, with pedigree in both the international and European arenas.”

Scotland head coach Andy Robinson was equally pleased with the appointment: “This is a great appointment for Edinburgh and Scottish Rugby,” he said. “I am certain Michael will bring great drive and determination to the role of head coach of Edinburgh. I very much look forward to working with him and wish him every success.”