The president of the Italian Federation Alfredo Gavazzi is optimistic that the appointment of Conor O’Shea will be a turning point for the national side.
O’Shea will arrive in Italy after the current domestic season from Harlequins and takes over from Jacques Brunel as the head coach of the Azzurri.
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After a sixth place finish in this year’s RBS 6 Nations, Italy will be looking to bounce back, and Gavazzi is confident that O’Shea, along with Mike Catt and Stephen Aboud who will work alongside him, is the man to turn things around.
According to Gavazzi, O’Shea’s track record off the pitch will be just as important as what he has achieved on it with Quins, and he believes the former Ireland full-back is the right man to turn things around.
“This nomination by the FIR is a turning point,” said Gavazzi.
“We have identified three high profile figures but also three assets who through their professional pathways have what we believe is needed to contribute to our development. O’Shea is a young coach who has a track record of success on the pitch and stand-out managerial skills which will be added advantage when dealing with the various components of Italian rugby.
“We are pleased to be able to offer a warm welcome to Conor, Mike Catt and Stephen Aboud, who will have a crucial role in the development of Italian rugby and the processes of training players and coaches at regional level.”
