O’Dea Set For France Move

19th June 2015 By Munster Rugby

Munster Rugby can today confirm that winger Luke O’Dea will move to the French Pro D2 next season, while Clontarf centre Matt D’Arcy will join the province on a short-term contract.

Shannon clubman O’Dea, who has made 20 senior appearances for Munster, scoring 6 tries, was offered a short term contract with the province as World Cup cover, but instead has decided to take up a two year option in the Pro D2.

Both knee and hand injuries curtailed O’Dea’s involvement across much of last season with the 24 year old making just two Guinness PRO12 appearances, the most recent of which was against Scarlets in February.

Commenting on the announcement Munster Rugby CEO Garrett Fitzgerald said, “We obviously would have liked to retain Luke’s services for a while longer at Munster but we wholly understand his decision.

“The move to France represents a great opportunity for him. Unfortunately the past couple of seasons have been quite injury-blighted for Luke, but now that he’s fully fit, it’s important that he plays on a consistent basis.

“I would like to thank Luke for his service to Munster Rugby and we wish him all the best with the move to France.”

Meanwhile, Munster can also confirm that Clontarf centre Matt D’Arcy will join the province on a short-term contract. An impressive season for the Ireland Club XV captain saw him become the Ulster Bank Division 1A Player of the Year as well as being the league’s top try scorer.

On the signing of D’Arcy, Fitzgerald added, “Matt will join us on a three month contract initially where we will monitor his development. He has proven both his talent and leadership in the club game and it’s great that he now has the opportunity to play professional rugby.”