Bristol Rugby name Pat Lam as new Head Coach

Pat Lam currently manages Irish side Connacht Credit: PA

Bristol Rugby have appointed Pat Lam as their new Head Coach.

The Samoan, who is currently boss at Connacht, will join Bristol in June ahead of next season.

The 48 year-old led the Irish side to their first ever major trophy in 2016, and won the English Premiership as a player for Newcastle Falcons in 1998.

Lam said, “I’m excited about the opportunity to coach and lead Bristol Rugby – a proud club with history, tradition and a bright future ahead."

He added, "what appeals to me most after speaking to Steve Lansdown and Chris Booy is their passion, vision and long term commitment to inspire fellow Bristolians worldwide through rugby success on and off the field."

Bristol Rugby currently lie at the bottom of the Premiership, having lost all ten games. They sacked Andy Robinson last month, with Mark Tainton set to continue his role as acting Head Coach.

Club Chairman Chris Booy and Head Coach Mark Tainton have explaining the reasons for Lam's appointment.