Best denies poaching for England

13 April 2012

London Irish director of rugby Dick Best has become embroiled in a feud with the Ireland squad.

Best has denied accusations he has been encouraging Ireland players with dual citizenship to defect to the England set-up.

It follows the decision of London Irish flanker Declan Danagher to leave the Ireland Under-21 squad for the England camp.

Ireland Under-21 coach Ciaran Fitzgerald said: "I think there is an influence at London Irish to move their Ireland players to England. Maybe some of their coaches are involved in the England coaching set-up.

"It's a shame. We had three players from Irish on our books last year and there were no problems. We don't have any this year."

But Best fumed: "I'm surprised and disappointed to hear Ciaran's comments. I have never, and would never, try to influence a player that way. It would be of no benefit to me whatsoever."

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