19 Mar 2013

McKenzie linked to Ireland and Wallabies

7:12 pm on 19 March 2013

The Queensland Reds departing Director of Coaching Ewen McKenzie could be in contention to take the reigns of Ireland's national rugby team.

McKenzie, who joined the Reds in 2009, guided the franchise to its first championship in 2011 in addition to back-to-back Australian conference titles.

McKenzie says after spending nine years coaching at a Super Rugby level, he's excited about pursuing a different role either in Australia or overseas.

Richard Graham was appointed head coach for the Reds this year while McKenzie assumed the role of Director of Coaching.

McKenzie's decision, reported in The Australian, adds weight to speculation McKenzie is in line for the Wallabies job, with current head coach Robbie Deans contracted until the end of the year.

Sky News has reported McKenzie could replace Declan Kidney in Ireland.