Andy Farrell has surprise inclusion as Ireland-heavy Lions coaching staff confirmed

Lots of Ireland involvement

Ireland's head coach had already announced three appointments back in January, with David Nucifora, Aled Walters, and Vinnie Hammond all coming on board.

Nucifora, the former High Performance director with the IRFU, and now in a similar role with Scotland, will be General Manager of the tour.

Aled Walters, who is currently with Ireland, will be Head of Athletic Performance, and the IRFU's Vinnie Hammond and two-time Lions analyst, takes on the role of Head of Analysis.

This morning, Farrell added Scotland forwards coach John Dalziel, Ireland defence coach and interim head coach Simon Easterby, Ireland scrum coach John Fogarty, Ireland attack coach John Goodman, and England assistant coach Richard Wigglesworth.

The latter four were expected, but Scotland's Dalziel was a late surprise to the line up.

Here is what the coaches had to say:

Dalziel: “It’s a huge honour and I am massively thankful for the opportunity. It’s a real pinch yourself moment. Even from our first meeting as coaches you could feel the energy in the room and it is hugely exciting to work with these guys."

Fogarty: “I didn’t believe Andy when he called me. This is a dream come true and I am so proud and thankful to Andy and everyone at the Lions.

“I have had some brilliant days with Leinster and Ireland, but there is something so special about bringing the home nations and all their supporters together."

Goodman: “When Andy phoned up, I was silent for about 30 seconds and he even asked if I was still there.

“I was shocked. . .excited - all the emotions. It was pretty special calling my family back home in New Zealand."