John Mulvihill admits the loss of Sam Warburton is disappointing but believes Cardiff Blues have more than enough strength in depth to cope.
The Cardiff Blues ace, who has achieved legendary status in the international game, announced his retirement on Wednesday after unsuccessfully returning to pre-season training.
His retirement is undoubtedly a blow to rugby but Mulvihill prefers to view it as an opportunity for others - with both Cardiff Blues and Wales blessed with talent in the position.
Speaking following Warburton’s decision, Mulvihill said: “I’ve only known Sam for a few months but I’ve been aware of the legend that is Sam Warburton for a long time.
“He sits at the same table as Richie McCaw, David Pocock and George Smith
He’s a true champion and doesn’t want to just hang on and make the numbers up.
“He was really excited about being in a new program, under new coaches and with new players coming in so it is disappointing but we understand what it’s all about and he has to look after his own welfare. His mind is still there, he wants to do it and has that passion but his body is not letting him.
“Now it’s an opportunity rather than a blow. It’s an opportunity for someone to step up, stand up and really want that position. If you look through all the regions there’s some really good back-row talent, who will take Wales to the next level at the World Cup.”
At Cardiff Blues the back-row is one of the strongest areas of the squad with three current Wales internationals – Ellis Jenkins, Josh Navidi and Josh Turnbull – joined by the likes of Olly Robinson and Nick Williams.
Jenkins is seen by many as Warburton’s natural successor for number seven jersey at both Cardiff Blues and Wales and Mulvihill believes he will have a long and successful career.
He added: “We’re in the unique position at Cardiff Blues where we have Josh Navidi, Olly Robinson and Ellis Jenkins who has captained Wales as well so we’re in a really good spot.
“They have all learnt off Sam and now it’s up to one or two of those guys to step up.
“Ellis Jenkins will be Ellis Jenkins. I’ve always wanted all of our players to be who they are, don’t try to be someone different.
“He will bring a little more versatility to our game. He is only young in international years but he’ll have a long career there. I’m sure he will look to see what Sam’s done, the current trends for sevens in world rugby and package his game around that.”