Munster's Mike Prendergast: 'Axel’s name is always there and always will be'

Munster coach Mike Prendergast admits that the team and players will never forget their former friend and colleague, Anthony 'Axel' Foley.

Anthony Foley earned 62 caps for Ireland and played over 200 times for Munster between 1995 and 2008. The Munster legend then transitioned into coaching, where he became both a forwards coach and head coach of the team.

However, Foley sadly passed away from acute pulmonary oedema before a Champions Cup game against Racing 92 in Paris on October 16, 2016. He died in his sleep.

Wednesday marked the 8th anniversary of his passing, and his legacy in Irish and Munster rugby remains strong to this day.

Munster's Mike Prendergast was asked about Foley and acknowledged that the team continues to talk about the late legend. The former Ireland scrumhalf also admitted that his name still echoes around the province.

"We were speaking about Axel on the bus, remembering the great memories, but the thing about Axel is we always talk about him," said Prendergast ahead of the game against the Stormers to RTE Sport

"Today is his anniversary, but in terms of what he was as a friend, player, and coach, he's someone we speak about all the time. A brilliant guy, and we remember him more today, on his anniversary, but his name is always there. He’s always spoken about.

"In all our huddles, his name is mentioned literally every day we’re together—whether it's training or after games. Whenever the boys are in a huddle, Axel’s name is always there and always will be."

Munster's clash against the Stormers will take place on Saturday, October 19, at 5 p.m. Irish time. Team announcements will follow in due course.