LEINSTER HEADCOACH Leo Cullen and Ireland captain Johnny Sexton have given their full support to the provinces scrum-half Nick McCarthy.
The 27-year-old player came out as gay earlier this afternoon.
Jonathan Sexton and head coach Leo Cullen Leinster Rugby praised Nick McCarthy
Nick McCarthy arrive for training Leinster Rugby Squad Training
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Speaking to LeinsterRugby.ie the provinces’ headcoach praised the player after the revelation.
McCarthy credited Cullen and his teammates earlier, and revealed that he received ‘Unbelievable’ support.
The Leinster boss says the player will be a fantastic role model for younger players who have not yet come out.
Cullen says he is very proud of the scrum-half: “Nick told us a while ago and the main thing when I talked to him first, was that it was great that he was able to talk openly to us.
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“Nick is a brilliant individual and we are supportive of him. That’s the most important bit for me. We want to make sure that all our guys are able to maximise their ability and be able to bring all of themselves to Leinster Rugby while they are here.
“To be at your best you need to make sure you are working hard but also it’s about being yourself and it’s important you’re not battling against being yourself. So doing what’s in your heart, I guess, so we are pleased that Nick has been able to come out with this news so he can start being more comfortable just being himself.
“Nick has definitely had a battle going on in the back of his mind, and I’m sure there are other young people going through something similar.
“He will be an amazing role model to people because he’s a great person in the group. He’s very popular in the squad.
“We just want what’s best for Nick but he’s going to be an amazing role model, we hope, to lots of young people out there.”
Leinster and Ireland skipper Johnny also praised his teammate.
The Ireland out-half speaking ahead of flying out to the summer test series against New Zealand credited the number 9 for revealing his sexuality.
Sexton added: “I’ve known Nick since his time in the Academy so to hear him talk to us so openly about his struggles has been tough but we are now just delighted for Nick and that he can be himself.
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“We talk about looking after our brothers a lot in here and the last few months has been about that, looking out for Nick. And that will continue.
“By speaking openly about his sexuality, Nick will be a role model for others and we couldn’t be prouder of him.”