O'Carroll appointed Scarlets' new defence coach

Scarlets have appointed Eamon O'Carroll as their new defence coach.

The 38-year-old former Ireland international will join the Llanelli region from St Helens at the end of the Super League season.

O'Carroll has previously held roles as head coach of Bradford Bulls and Newcastle Thunder and was assistant coach at Catalans Dragons.

"The opportunity to join Scarlets was one that really excited me," he said.

"I've always tried to challenge myself throughout my career and step outside my comfort zone because that's when I feel I do my best work.

"Scarlets is a great club with huge history, strong values and clearly means everything to its supporters and the whole region in west Wales."

Scarlets say O'Carroll will work on defensive organisation and systems as well as working closely with players and staff across the entire performance programme to "help develop the physical and behavioural standards required to compete at the highest level".

"Defence is about far more than systems," said interim director of rugby Nigel Davies.

"It is about attitude, commitment, trust and the willingness to compete for every moment of the game.

"Eamon brings those qualities in abundance."