Munster Sign Paul Burke

Munster announced on Monday night that they have agreed terms with Paul Burke who has agreed to join them on a two year contract. Burke (30) has spent the past four seasons with NEC Harlequins.

Munster announced on Monday night that they have agreed terms with Paul Burke who has agreed to join them on a two year contract.

Burke (30) has spent the past four seasons with NEC Harlequins making over 90 appearances for the London club and scoring over 1000 points. Speaking of the move from his Sunbury-on-Thames earlier today Burke said,

“I am really delighted to be going back to Munster. They have become one of the truly great sides in Europe. They have great ambition and I hope I can brng the experience I’ve gained playing over here to help them achieve their goals. I would say there were not many sides that that could tempt me away from Harlequins.

“I would like to thank the club and the supporters for four enjoyable years here. They (Harlequins)have been very supportive of my move and I appreciate their understanding my reasons for leaving. I wish them all the very best in the future. Who knows maybe we’ll meet in the Heineken Cup next season.”

“It’s really a fantastic challenge and a great opportunity for me. I still have a burning ambition to play for Ireland and playing with a side like Munster will help me in that regard.

“I’m looking forward to going back. It’ an exciting move and one that I am really thrilled with.”

Alan Gaffney – “We are always looking to strengthen our squad and Paul Burke is the type of player we need to compete at the highest level. He’s vastly experienced and his inclusion in the squad gives us depth in a crucial position. I am delighted to have Paul on board.”

Paul Burke was born in London of Irish parents his father from Galway and his mother from Newbridge in Co Kildare. He played with Cork Con and Munster for two seasons before heading over to England to play with Bristol. He left Ireland after helping Munster to the interprovincial title and after playing with Bristol he moved to Cardiff for two seasons before moving to London and NEC Harlequins.

He is married to a Limerick woman (Hilary) and the couple have an 18 month old daughter, Isobelle. With that Limerick connection the Burke will take up residence in Limerick.