‘He’s an incredible person’ – Leo Cullen hails Cian Healy as new deal puts him on course for Leinster and Ireland caps record
Cian Healy has signed a new deal with Leinster Rugby
Cian Healy is on track to become the most-capped player for Leinster and Ireland after inking a new contract that will see him remain at the RDS next season.
Healy became the most capped player in Champions Cup history last weekend when he surpassed Ronan O’Gara’s record with his 112th appearance, while he is four Ireland caps off Brian O’Driscoll’s all-time record of 133 and five shy of Devin Toner’s 280 for Leinster.
The loosehead prop (36) will be taking part in his 19th season in blue and his coach and former teammate Leo Cullen hailed his longevity at a press conference this afternoon.
“He is an incredible person, Cian,” Cullen said.
“He really is remarkable and he’s just so authentic really, isn’t he?
"He’s so popular amongst the lads, just because he is so much his own man. I don’t think he copies anyone else out there.
“He was great to play with. I had seen him come through as a younger player, trying to help him along the way, whether that helped in any way or not. I doubt it!
“He’s a remarkable individual.
“It is great that he has agreed to sign on and he has added strings to his bow as well over the course of his career.
“You see him in the Six Nations game (against Scotland last year), where he comes on and plays 40 minutes at hooker.
“He has played games for us as a tighthead as well. For him to be able to do that and have the mindset to do that, is hugely attractive.
“For an experienced player in the group to be able to do that so comfortably is great for us to have.”
“We’re delighted that he has agreed to stay on. Even it was nice in the dressing room the last day where he becomes the record cap holder in the Champions Cup tournament. He’s a pretty special individual.”
