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South Africa Super Rugby side the Lions have confirmed the departure of long-serving defence coach JP Ferreira, who will join Irish side Munster in January. Ferreira has been a key part of the Lions set-up that has reached two consecutive Super Rugby finals, though both ended in defeat. His departure has long been mooted, but was confirmed by the side in a statement on Thursday. His departure comes just months after head coach Johan Ackermann moved to English side Gloucester. Ferreira joins fellow South African Johann van Graan at Munster. "It is really hard to say goodbye to this amazing Lions family," Ferreira said. "I have been fortunate and blessed to have been with the Lions for 10 years and have been part of 10 Currie Cup and Super Rugby Competitions. "There have been extreme highs and lows in these 10 years of service, but nothing that I would ever regret. It has been an amazing time. "I feel that it is now time for me to improve, grow and experience a new culture, team, environment and competitions. I want to thank every single coach, player and support staff that invested in my life at the Lions Rugby Company in these 10 years. I cannot thank you enough. "I'm really excited and am looking forward to this next challenge and chapter in my and my family's lives." No replacement has yet been named as current head coach Swys de Bruin takes the side through pre-season ahead of the 2018 Super Rugby season.
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