Leo Cullen has been appointed as Leinster head coach on a two-year contract

Leo Cullen has been appointed as Leinster's new head coach.

Leinster and the Irish Rugby Football Union announced that Cullen has agreed a two-year deal.

He had been in interim charge following the departure of Matt O'Connor at the end of last season.

Cullen made more than 200 appearances for Leinster and captained them to three European titles. The 37-year-old former lock also won 32 Ireland caps between 2002 and 2011.

Leinster Rugby chief executive Mick Dawson said: " Leo's status as a player is beyond question. He is second only to Gordon D'Arcy in terms of senior appearances, and he was an outstanding captain and leader on the pitch.

"Over the last 12 months or so in his capacity with the forwards, and indeed over the pre-season as interim head coach, Leo has continued to impress everyone at Leinster with his tactical and strategic direction.

"It was a thorough and robust interview process, and we took our time to ensure that this was the case. The process included the input of all relevant stakeholders, and ultimately Leo was the best candidate that we interviewed."

Leinster defence coach Kurt McQuilkin, meanwhile, has seen his short-term deal extended to a two-year contract.