Ireland’s Head Coach Andy Farrell believes Stuart Lancaster’s experience will add to the Lions coaching staff.
Warren Gatland admitted earlier this week that he had spoken to the former England head coach about joining the 2021 tour of South Africa.
The 50-year-old joined Leo Cullen’s backroom team in 2016 as a senior coach and has been praised for his work at the province which garnered two Guinness PRO 14 titles and a Champions Cup.
Farrell who worked as Lancaster’s assistant during their days at England said he can see why Gatland would choose the Leinster coach given his experience and knowledge of the game.
“He’s a very experienced coach," said Farrell, "[One] that knows the club and the international game very thoroughly.
"He has knowledge of all aspects of the game and knowledge of all the players that are in the British and Irish Isles.
“He would certainly be a top candidate for Warren, and I can see why there have been conversations.”
While nothing is officially confirmed yet, should Lancaster join the coaching ticket for the 2021 tour, he is likely to be one of a number of representatives from the province to take on the Springboks.
For Andy Farrell though, his aim is to now focus and prepare on Ireland’s fixtures beginning in October, starting with a home tie against Italy in late October.
Speaking to the media via video link, Farrell said his team was "gutted" they didn't get a chance to immediately bounce back from the Twickenham loss.
"We were gutted the competition didn't keep rolling on." said the Ireland head coach.
"After a disappointing game against England, the only thing the boys wanted to do was get back on the horse against England. We had a great reflection week and we were brimming to go over to Paris and see what we could do.
"Having said that, to be able to reflect on the short campaign and know what's in front of us has been a good time to use."
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