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'He's a top coach' | George Kruis backs Andy Farrell to succeed at Ireland

Andy Farrell has what it takes to be a top-quality head coach, according to England and Saracens ...



Andy Farrell has what it takes to be a top-quality head coach, according to England and Saracens lock George Kruis.

The British and Irish Lion was speaking to Off The Ball about Andy Farrell taking over as Ireland’s new head coach and predicted a successful spell in charge.

Kruis has worked under Farrell at both Saracens and England and is well-acquainted with how the former England international operates.

The Saracens lock was unsurprised to see his former coach get the top position at an international team.

“Yeah, for sure [he was destined to become a head coach]. In terms of clarity and what I like in [coaching] situations. He’s a top coach in that sense. He’ll be up there.

“He’s been underneath a few very good coaches and very different coaching styles. So I imagine he’ll have built his armoury quite well and he’ll be the proper stuff,” Kruis said.

Ireland’s new head coach is the father of current England captain Owen Farrell, which will add another layer of intrigue when the two sides come head to head in this year’s Six nations.

While both Owen and his dad will presumably want to see each other do well, Kruise believes that their personal relationship will not get in the way of their professional rivalry.

“They’re both highly driven people and I think they’re at the top of both of their games because of that reason.

“So at that point, I guess it’s just business isn’t it. You’ve just got to get on with what you do,” Kruis said.

The two Farrell’s will go head-to-head on February 23rd in Round 3 of the Six Nations in a highly-anticipated clash.

Scotland will act as Farrell’s first challenge as head coach, however, with his side taking on Gregor Townsend’s men on February 1st at the Aviva Stadium.

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Andy Farrell George Kruis Ireland Owen Farrell Six Nations