Anthony Foley is expected to be confirmed soon as Munster coach for another season. Negotiations on taking up the third year option on his contract started early this month, and “have gone well,” according to a senior Munster source.

“All parties involved have agreed to leave it now until after Christmas.”

Foley signed a two year deal, with an option for a third, in 2014. Under the terms of the contract exploring that option needed to begin by 1 December.

The situation regarding Foley’s back room team is unclear. Brian Walsh, Ian Costello, Mick O’Driscoll and Jerry Flannery – along with Foley – made up the first all-Irish coaching roster at provincial level in this country.