Ospreys appoint Allen Clarke as forwards coach

Ospreys have confirmed former Ireland international Allen Clarke as their new forwards coach from 2017/18 season.

The former hooker, who has represented Ireland eight times between 1995 and 1998 will replace Chris Gibbes, who will head back to New Zealand to take in charge of Mitre 10 Cup side Wellington Lions.

Clarke, a former Ulster player, has been associated with the club for 20 years and has also worked as high performance manager with Irish Rugby Football Union for five years.

The 49-year-old took the role of Forwards coach with Ulster in 2014 and has been working with emerging teams in Ireland as well.

Clarke said he was impressed by the goal and long-term plan of Ospreys and is looking forward to have a successful stint with the Welsh regional side.

“I’m delighted to have this opportunity and really excited about the next challenge in my career” said Clarke.

“Why the Ospreys? What’s impressed me is the people. Many organisations will have values and I get the sense that the people at the Ospreys really do believe and live their values. That creates a good environment to work in, a culture that I’m looking forward to being part of.

“It’s an ambitious organisation, with a great mix of experience and some real talent coming through, and I hope that I can add value, for the players, the coaches and the management. Chris Gibbes has done a great job in building a pack that has the potential to go toe-to-toe with anyone and I’m grateful to have that platform to work from when I arrive in the summer. I’m looking forward to the challenge."

Ospreys are currently second in the ongoing season of Pro 12 with 13 wins from 17 matches.