Playing on. But where?

Ireland and Leinster fullback Rob Kearney has revealed he will continue to play rugby following next year’s Rugby World Cup in Japan – but for how long and where he does not know.

Kearney, along with Ireland and Ulster captain Rory Best signed extensions back in March to tie them over until the end of next year’s tournament. Best is due to make a decision on his future in the coming weeks, but Kearney at least will definitely be playing on – although perhaps not in Ireland.

The two-time Lions tourist has refused to rule out a lucrative move to England or France, with talks set to begin on a potential new deal in the coming weeks.

“I wanted to leave it until after November just before I had any thoughts on it,” he said.

“I’ve made the decision now that I’m going to play after the World Cup, in some capacity. So, I’m still no further down the road as to where.”

 “It wasn’t in doubt [over playing on] but I just didn’t want to put myself under too much pressure…just to see how the body was first and I always find that where I’m at physically is determined by where I am mentally.

“When my body is good and I feel fresh, and we’re winning, it’s very hard not to really enjoy what you’re doing and keep wanting for more.

“It’s something that I need to start the process of in the next month or so.”

[The42.ie]