Rugby:Tony McGahan extended his contract with Munster to ensure the Australian remains as head coach of the Magners League champions until at least 2012.

The 37-year-old took over from Declan Kidney at the start of last season, having joined the Munster set- as defence coach in February 2005. He was an integral part of the coaching staff during Munster’s Heineken Cup success.

"We're obviously delighted that we have come to agreement with Tony for the immediate future,” said Garrett Fitzgerald, Munster Rugby chief executive.

"He has shown in his short space of time as a head coach that he has all the attributes to keep Munster Rugby to the forefront of the international club game, while at the same time ensuring players have the required skill sets for the international game.

"We have already enjoyed considerable success in the course of his short tenure and we believe that Munster Rugby can only continue to prosper under his direction."

As the autumn internationals concluded, attentions turn to Magners League and Heineken Cup action with Munster set to face the Ospreys at Liberty Stadium this Saturday.

"I'm very pleased to be remaining on here for the next number of seasons,” said McGahan, who arranged a two-day squad meeting in Tipperary this week after welcoming back his players who were on international duty.

"It's been a privilege to be involved with this group of players and the management and officials here in Munster.

"I'm really looking forward to the immediate future, with crucial Magners League and Heineken Cup games in the offing, but I'm also delighted, both personally and professionally, to be remaining with Munster in the short term."

McGahan will also introduce new Munster signing, Wian du Preez, tomorrow after the South African joined the province on a three-month contract until the end of January.

The prop comes in as much-needed cover at loosehead after Marcus Horan was sidelined. Following a successful medical procedure Horan has resumed light training.