Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt has described Anthony Foley as “great company” and lamented the huge loss to both Munster and Irish rugby.
The IRFU has opened a book of condolences for members of the public wishing to record their condolences for the Foley family after the Munster head coach passed away in Paris ahead of the Champions Cup clash with Racing 92.
Chief Executive Philip Browne said that the “Irish Rugby family has lost a special individual” while Schmidt also reflected on his own relationship with the Munster head coach.
“Over the past few seasons I've had the opportunity to work closely with Axel,” he said.
“His insights on the game and good-natured banter ensured he was always great company.
“He was incredibly supportive of Munster squad members selected for national duty and immensely proud of any Munster man who pulled on the green jersey.
“He is a huge loss to both Munster and Irish Rugby.”
Ronan O’Gara has spoken about the loss of an “incredible man” as the rugby world struggles to come to terms with the sudden death of a former team-mate.
O’Gara, a coach with Racing 92 but a long-serving Munster team-mate with Foley during the province’s most successful period, paid his own tribute on social media.
Anthony Foley, Munster legend https://t.co/PHUzjkPhRJ
— RTÉ Sport (@RTEsport) October 16, 2016
Together the pair won two Heineken Cups and a Celtic League with Munster and a Triple Crown with Ireland in 2004 and shared the field together for some of the province’s most special days.
“Alone on the couch with Jess.Heartbroken.We have lost an incredible man. Too sad to tweet further.. sleep well Axel. We love you..xxx,” he posted on his Twitter account.
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