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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.

 

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