Connacht head coach Elwood – who won accumulated 296 points in his 35 caps for Ireland – will take chief responsibility as head coach while Munster legend Foley will look after the Wolfhounds forwards.

And Ellwood – who has previously been involved in the Under-20 set-up – cannot wait to link up with old friend Foley.

“I am delighted to take up this role and to be getting the opportunity to work with such a wide group of players at international level again,” he said.

“I know from my time with the Ireland Under-20 team that there is nothing more satisfying then bringing players together and to help prepare them to represent their country.

“It will be great to work with my old team-mate Axel (Anthony Foley) as both of us have progressed onto the other side of the game as coaches.

“The exposure of Ireland players to top class opposition at international level is important for not only the development of the players themselves, but also to have them prepared and primed to step into the senior team, particularly from the timing of our matches in terms of the RBS 6 Nations Championship.”

“I will be working with Declan (Kidney) in terms of getting the best out of the players and impressing on them that the Wolfhounds team will be another opportunity to press their claims for a place in the Ireland senior team.”