Magners League Official Website : Howley handed role with the Blues

Howley handed role with the Blues

20 January 2005, 4:15 pm

By Jonathan McConnell

Former Wales and Lions Robert Howley has agreed to join the Cardiff Blues as backs coach next season.

Howley, 34, was forced to retire in November
because of a recurring wrist injury having led English side Wasps to a Zurich Premiership and European Cup double in the 2003-04 season.

"There is no denying that because of my hand injury the change from player to coach has come a year or so sooner than I had planned but, fortunately, I was already preparing for this next stage," he told AFP.

"I have taken dual coaching badges under the WRU and RFU schemes and being involved with the professional environment at London Wasps has also been an important part of the learning curve." Howley had his first taste of coaching when he took charge of the Barbarians backs for their match against New Zealand at Twickenham last month.

The move back to Cardiff sees Howley reunited with one of his closest friends from his playing days, Dai Young, now head coach at the club.

"Dai and I go back a long way as team-mates for Cardiff, Wales and the Lions and I'm sure we can be equally successful working together as coaches," Howley said.