He was a long-serving member of Lansdowne RFC during his playing says and in 2009 he succeeded Phil Orr as manager of the Ireland U20 squad, going on to lift the Six Nations crown in 2010.

Kearney said: “I am obviously delighted to take up the position as well as honoured to be involved with the team.

“My focus now is to get up to speed as soon as possible and give whatever support is necessary to Declan, the coaches and players as we head into the Championship.

“The role is multifaceted, but I am looking forward to the challenge. The transition is somewhat easier having had the experience of working with the IRFU. They have an incredibly professional staff working around the team, who will I am sure will help me adjust quickly.”

Meanwhile, Ireland head coach Declan Kidney believes the appointment is a shrewd one.

“In thanking Paul for his outstanding services to the team, I’m delighted to welcome Michael into the management team and look forward to working with him,” said Kidney.

“The role is an important part of how the team functions and it’s excellent to have someone of his background to bring his organisational skills to the management group.”