Assessing the three leading candidates for Munster’s new Director of Rugby job

Still in the frying pan and bracing for the fire.

Anthony Foley has decided to accept the one-year contract extension to remain on as Munster head coach in 2016/17. The province was satisfied that Foley should be given more time to turn their fortunes around but are pressing ahead with plans to appoint a Director of Rugby. Under Foley, Munster reached the Champions Cup quarter final and Guinness PRO12 final, last season. This time out, they were eliminated from the Champions Cup pool stages and are facing a battle to finish top four in the league. Munster confirmed, this afternoon, that they were 'actively looking to appoint a Director of Rugby for next season'. The newcomer will assume responsibility for the professional rugby programme and elite player development pathway in the province. Munster Rugby chief executive Garrett Fitzgerald says:

"As confirmed previously we offered Anthony the option to extend his contract as per the initial agreement in 2014 and we are pleased to see him avail of this renewal and commit to the province for a further year. "The decision to seek a Director of Rugby was made at Munster Professional Game Board level in consultation with the IRFU, and is in line with our strategic plan for the organisation."

Munster will reveal their new top dog before the season's end. We run the rule over the current, leading contenders.

Top candidates for Munster D.o.R

The favourite - Todd Blackadder Current head coach of Super Rugby franchise Canterbury Crusaders but out of contract later this year. 'Toddy' played 12 Test for the All Blacks and played in Europe, from 2001 to 2004, for Edinburgh. Knows all about pressure to succeed at a club [Crusaders] bred on winning titles. Strong bet - Conor O'Shea Leaving his role as Harlequins Director of Rugby this summer. Won an Aviva Premiership and Challenge Cup during his time at Quins. Was tipped to coach Italy next but that has been denied by their union. Previously linked with Ireland in 2013. Former Leinster player but said to be open to a move to Limerick. People's champ - Paul O'Connell No coaching experience but has been known to be very vocal on the training pitch with province, country and on the 2009 and 2013 Lions tours. Retired from rugby earlier this year. Would be a big ask to take over the day-to-day running but would have the backing of many players and supporters.