Bernard Jackman: Ulster job is one of the best in Europe

Bernard Jackman believes the Ulster job would be an attractive prospect for the game's top coaches, with the province set to replace Dan McFarland as head coach.

Ulster Rugby have confirmed that McFarland has departed his position as head coach, in the wake of Sunday's 19-17 defeat to the Ospreys in Swansea.

Ireland U20 head coach Richie Murphy will charge of the side until the end of the season, as the province look to consolidate their place in the top half of the BKT URC, and secure Champions Cup qualification.

And while Murphy could even be a contender to get the job beyond the summer, Jackman believes the 1999 European champions have a lot to offer potential candidates.

"I think it's one of the best jobs in Europe. It really is," Jackman told the RTÉ Rugby podcast.

The province are expected to make significant budget cuts next season, with Billy Burns one of their first team regulars who wasn't offered a contract beyond the end of this season.

In spite of this, Jackman believes the Irish system is one that coaches want to work in, given how stable the coaching jobs are compared to other nations.

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He said: "They’ve a massive fanbase, a great stadium. I don’t think the squad is brilliant, but it’s still more than good enough to be top six in the URC.

"They should be able to beat Glasgow and Edinburgh at home, beat the Welsh regions and beat the South African teams at home, I think.

"It’s one of the better jobs, and Ireland is a very attractive place to coach. Look at [Connacht head