Guy Easterby returns to Leinster

juvenal

Greetings boardsies,

A long time reader, I've recently decided to join the growing ranks.

Anyhow, interesting to note that Cheika has decided to broaden his scrum-half options with the short-term signing of former player Guy Easterby for the remainder of the Heineken Cup pool stages.

I think it's a risky move, even though considering that Whitaker is a long term injury victim, young Willis looks a bit short of ability, and although I was impressed with Chris Keane, I haven't seen enough to indicate he'll be solid enough in key games at home to Stade Toulousain and away Leicester. Although at 36 does he have the legs? It will be interesting to see if he's in the squad for this weekend's trip to Murrayfield.

BBC Sport wrote:

Guy Easterby has come out of retirement to rejoin Leinster on a short-term contract until the end of the Heineken Cup pool stages.

The former Ireland international will bolster Leinster's scrum-half depth in the absence of injured Chris Whitaker. Easterby, 36, quit professional rugby at the end of last season.

However, he has been in action for Otley in England's National League Two this season and has agreed to rejoin the Irish province.

Leinster coach Michael Cheika said: "Guy has huge experience in the game and was a popular member of the squad up until his retirement. "I have no doubt he will give us the depth in the scrum-half position that we need at this important part of our year. "He is a proven leader and it is also an added boost that he is familiar with the set-up. "I would also like to express my thanks to Otley for their understanding and co-operation in facilitating the move."

Easterby will be eligible to play in both the Heineken Cup and the Magners League.

Chris Whitaker suffered his broken ankle in the Heineken Cup defeat by Toulouse.

phog

I take it that he replaces Whitaker on the HEC panel. Is he coming in to take the No. 9 shirt or is coming as cover? Hard on Willis and Keane if he coming to claim the spot.

juvenal

From what I can gather, he'll be in the matchday 22 for the HEC games.

Tough on the two lads alright, as one of them will miss out. We'll have to wait until later in the week to see where he's named.

toomevara

Big leap from Otley to Heineken Cup action...I'm a bit dubious to be honest, although he's been pretty useful for 'em, according to those in the know around here...

dc69

what wrong with playing chris keane?why bother

suppafly

phog wrote: »

I take it that he replaces Whitaker on the HEC panel. Is he coming in to take the No. 9 shirt or is coming as cover? Hard on Willis and Keane if he coming to claim the spot.

He's in to replace Willis cuz he was absolutely dire. He was killing them and Whitaker is injured at the mo. Has a contract only till the end of the season afaik