Helping out.

Ulster and the IRFU have announced that former Scarlets head coach, and current Ireland forwards coach Simon Easterby will provide support for the province in the interim ahead of Dan McFarland’s arrival.

McFarland was announced as Ulster’s new head coach a few months back, but is currently serving a notice period with the Scottish Rugby Union (SRU) preventing him from joining the northern province in time for pre-season.

The SRU are adamant he must serve his full notice period, meaning he would not be available until mid-January. Ulster and the IRFU have said they are confident they can agree a deal to get him in earlier, but Easterby’s arrival means those negotiations are clearly still ongoing.

Easterby will commence work with the Ulster coaching staff this week.