Rugby: Eddie O’Sullivan has announced he is to step down as coach of the USA Eagles.

The Irishman is to “consider options closer to home” after leading the USA in the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand, where they made life very difficult for his homeland in the their tournament opener and achieved their goal of beating Russia.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my two-and-a-half years as head coach to the USA Eagles, it has been a rewarding journey working with all the players and staff.

“I was delighted with our progress and overall performances in the Rugby World Cup but feel that it is now time for me to consider other options closer to home.

“The win over Russia and the performance against Ireland on 9/11 was particularly special. I would like to wish USA Rugby every success in the future.'

O'Sullivan's manager John Baker says the former Ireland coach has received some “interesting enquiries” he will now consider.

USA Rugby chief executive Nigel Melville thanked O'Sullivan for his work, saying: "On behalf of USA Rugby, I'd like to thank Eddie for his time here and I think the Eagles' performance at the Rugby World Cup speaks volumes about him and the way he prepared the team," .

O'Sullivan served as an assistant coach to the Eagles at the 1999 World Cup but took on the head role a decade later. Melville said the Eagles would begin their search for a new coach next week.