5 Potential Candidates To Replace Pat Lam At Connacht
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Connacht Rugby have already drawn up a list of names to replace Pat Lam.
The Kiwi had another year to run on the contract he signed in 2015, but has come to an agreement with Connacht to leave at the end of the season and has described the decision as “one of the most difficult I’ve had to make in my life”.
His departure has come as a big shock to the province with Aviva Premiership strugglers Bristol confirming that he will be taking up a role with the English side following his departure from Connacht.
Lam has been praised for the attacking brand of rugby he has brought to Connacht over the last few years, leading them to their first trophy last year with a remarkable triumph in the PRO12, but who would be a good candidate to succeed him?
We’ve drawn up a list of five potential names that we feel could possibly do a job at Connacht.
1. Bernard Jackman
The former Connacht hooker has made a name for himself at Grenoble and is a former teammate of the current CEO Willie Ruane. Many people’s favourite for the role, has been linked with several top roles in recent seasons.
2. Jeremy Davidson
Former Ulster, Ireland and Lions lock Jeremy Davidson continues to do a remarkable job at Aurillac.
3. Ronan O’Gara
Another Irishman making a name for himself in France, could well relish the opportunity of taking over a Connacht side on the rise. Hard to see him return to Ireland with anyone but Munster, but stranger things have happened.
4. Stuart Lancaster
The former England boss joined Leinster this season in a coaching role but is bound to take the next high-profile top job that comes his way. Lancaster was linked with the Bristol role that Lam will indeed take up and could now easily end up as his replacement at the Sportsground.
5. Eddie O’Sullivan
The former Ireland boss has been out of work since leaving Biarritz in 2015. May not be a popular choice for the role, but would bring a wealth of experience with him to Galway. Connacht in the 1995-96 season and had stints with Buccaneers and Galwegians.
Who do you think would be a good fit for Connacht to replace Pat Lam?
