Former Ireland flanker Keith Gleeson will retire from club rugby with Leinster at the end of this season.

Gleeson, capped 27 times, broke into the Ireland team in 2002 and was a regular for his nation until arm and leg injuries curtailed his progress two years later.

However, Gleeson bounced back from those problems to earn four more caps for his country but has decided to call it a day at the age of 31.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with Leinster Rugby and am honoured to have played for both my province and country,” Gleeson said.

“My decision to retire is largely inspired by my desire to explore new avenues and opportunities and I feel now is the time to do that.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank my coaches, all the support staff at Leinster, my friends and family for their support over the last seven years.”

Meanwhile, Leinster have appointed Saracens director of rugby Alan Gaffney as their backs coach from next season.

The Australian will return to Irish province, who he steered to Celtic League success in 2002, and replace Sydney-bound David Knox after agreeing a two-year contract.

Gaffney will continue to work with Saracens, who he guided to fourth place in the Premiership last season, on a part-time consultancy basis.

He had already announced he would step down as Saracens boss in May with former Wallaby supremo Eddie Jones taking over at Vicarage Road.

In a further boost for Leinster, it was confirmed head coach Michael Cheika and defensive mastermind Kurt McQuilkin have signed new two-year deals.

"I will maintain an involvement with Saracens next season that will see me spending time with the club at agreed periods throughout the season,” said Gaffney.

"But the nature of the role allowed me to explore other opportunities and so I will renew my association with Leinster.

"From a personal perspective this is a good scenario for me and everything has worked out well.

"I really enjoyed the lifestyle when I lived in Ireland and that was another factor in making the decision."