Can we expect a Munster coaching re-shuffle?

(Pic courtesy JOE BUCKLEY)

THEY say that you can't believe everything you hear but the dogs of Limerick's streets have been busy barking out imminent change in the Munster coaching staff before the end of the season.

Few can find fault with the current back-room line-up, such has been the senior and the A team's form so far, but don't be too surprised if one prominent 'foreign' member of the current squad is seen in a different role in the not too distant future.

Tony McGahan's continuation as head coach remains up in the air, although there is little doubt that the Aussie and CEO Garrett Fitzgerald have had a few tete-a-tetes concerning a new contract.

McGahan has to take a big slice of the credit for the side has achieved this season and if they go on to win the Heineken Cup (with most pundits already backing them for a place in the final), public opinion will sway towards his retention.

When you consider the number of players that have been unavailable for selection to the coach this season, it makes Munster's march quite remarkable. In previous seasons the loss of even three from David Wallace, Denis Leamy, Felix Jones, Niall Ronan, Jerry Flannery, Doug Howlett all injured; Alan Quinlan and John Hayes retired and Peter Stringer (on loan to Saracens) would have scuppered any chances of a good European run.

But that's not the case this season. Full marks to the Academy and let's hope that Declan Kidney grasps the nettle and gives youth its fling in the green jersey during the Six Nations.