Munster coach Johann Van Graan praised New Zealand's Alby Mathewson after his short-term contract with the Irish province came to an end.
The 33-year-old scrum-half made a big impact from the bench in his final game for the Limerick based side.
Former junior All-Black Mathewson signed from Toulon in September 2018 and made a total of 27 appearances netting 30 points in the process.
Munster's South African coach paid tribute to the New Zealanders, immense professionalism throughout his stay with the Irish province.
"He's certainly one of the best and most professional players that I've coached in my time,' he said.
Johann Van Grann praised Alby Mathewson after his short stint with the province came to an end
"Once a Munster man; always a Munster man" @vodafoneIreland
#TeamOfUs pic.twitter.com/yjOpVf7ac3— Off The Ball (@offtheball) November 23, 2019
Van Graan spoke about the scrum-half's influence as a person in the squad and said he was one of the best human beings he has ever had the pleasure of working with.
He says Mathewson performances have set a benchmark for the rest of the squad.
"He's been the standard bearer for us over the past few months - Incredible human being. We are really going to miss him at Munster,' added Van Graan.
He's certainly one of the best and most professional players that I've coached in my time of 18 years of catching professional rugby.
Munster's coach says the team will miss his ability and presence but says he'll always be welcome at the province.
"He's one of the very best and he's a Munster man now - Once a Munster man, always Munster man, and we'll miss."
