RAY COUGHLAN, the manager of the Ireland A team, has been appointed director of rugby by Cork Constitution for next season. The Constitution club is changing its coaching structure and in appointing Coughlan to direct the new operation, they have acquired the services of a man of considerable experience and achievement.

Coughlan was assistant coach to Dave Haslett with the Ireland under 21 team for three years before he took over as Ireland A team manager this season when he again worked with Haslett, who is now coach to the A side. Coughlan has also coached the Munster junior team and for the past two seasons has been coaching adviser to All Ireland champions Shannon.

His new appointment with Constitution, an unpaid post, will not preclude him from continuing as manager of the Ireland A team.