McBride backs McGeechan appointment
by Nick Royle, 14 May 2008
Former British and Irish Lions legend Willie John McBride has backed the appointment of Ian McGeechan as the coach for the 2009 British and Irish Lions tour of South Africa.
The Wasps director of rugby has already proved himself against the Springboks, having led the Lions to victory over there in 1997.
The Scot has been involved in six tours, twice as a player [1974, 1977], assistant coach [2005] and head coach [1987, 1993, 1997], and his team-mate from 1974 McBride feels that McGeechan’s experience proved crucial in his appointment.
“When one looks around the four countries, it was difficult to go for anyone else,” he told Setanta Sports News.
“I have known Ian for many years, particularly from 1974 when we went to South Africa as players.
“He has come through the amateur era, but has proved that he is a good professional as well as an administrator and as a coach. He has also been in the shadows in previous Lions tours, as one of the unsung heroes.”
McBride, who won a record 17 Lions Test caps, also feels that the 61-year-old’s rapport with the players will hold him in good stead.
“He has the qualities of man-management. Players know what their job is, and players (on the fringes) know why they have not been selected. Ian McGeechan has proved those qualities over the years,” he continued.
McBride skippered the Lions' 1974 side, and feels that the current Welsh captain will make a worthy successor in 2009.
“Ryan Jones has proved himself the leader of the last year, when nobody thought that Wales would through, and do a Grand Slam. He was the man who came through as the outstanding captain,” he concluded.