There was relief all round today in Ireland and Leinster circles today with the news that Sean O'Brien had turned down Toulon's overtures and signed a new IRFU contract.

Keith Wood joined us tonight to react to the news and what it means for Ireland, the IRFU, Leinster and O'Brien's career.

"He is incredibly important to Ireland. He is one of the key guys that we have on our hands for the next six or seven years," said Keith.

"Some of the noises that have come out are interesting and the terminology of the IRFU because it's being put down as 'we got our man'. But if you look at it slightly differently, who's the big winner?

"The big winners are the Leinster fans and since he's come on the scene, his ability to get on the ball and over the gain line and raise the noise of a crowd has been phenomenal. There's something good strong, aggressive and honest about him that people want to associate with.

Keith Wood ©INPHO/Dan Sheridan

"This is a guy we need to hang our hat on and get the best out of. For O'Brien himself, he'll look at it and say 'I weighed up my options and looked at everything that was there on the table'. He weighed it up and decided on Leinster which is great for everyone over here."

With French clubs hovering for other stars, the way the IRFU kept hold of O'Brien seems to send a signal when it comes to other out-of-contract players.

"I wouldn't say it's a boundless cheque book," cautioned Keith. "But I think they have put a very big line in the tent to say that 'he's a big star, he's been courted by the wealthiest club around and we're able to make certain he's there.' I know we'll hear rumours in the next while about what the figures are. I said all along that it isn't entirely financial and it obviously isn't."

Main image: Sean O'Brien Leinster and Ireland rugby player photographed at his farm in Tullow, Co. Carlow with his dogs Hunter and Prince ©INPHO/Billy Stickland