Michael Bradley relieved of duties as Zebre head coach

Former Ireland scrumhalf Michael Bradley has been dismissed as head coach of Italian URC side Zebre.

Bradley, who has also coached Connacht and Edinburgh, departs the role after a difficult start to the season where the Italian outfit has lost all eight of its URC and Challenge Cup fixtures so far this campaign.

Since Bradley was appointed in 2017, Zebre have been perennial stragglers and have regularly found themselves languishing at the bottom of the URC table.

In a statement, the club said the following:

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“Zebre Rugby Club reports Michael Bradley has been relieved of his post as head coach of the franchise.

“The club has taken this decision to anticipate the path of technical renewal planned for the coming seasons in the URC and Challenge Cup.

“The whole club wishes to express its utmost gratitude to Michael for the commitment and contribution made over the years and for the wonderful human and professional journey undertaken together. Best wishes to Michael for the continuation of his career.”