WATCH: O’Byrne says Munster’s preseason change-up has been “refreshing”.

Munster head into the new season looking to make those crucial marginal gains that can turn the tightest of games in their favour. One final defeat and three semi final losses in the last two seasons have proved the province’s competitiveness up to a certain point.

With that in mind, several of the coaching staff have spend time at other sports organisations over the summer months to pick up learnings that can be applied to Munster.

Speaking at the first press conference of the new season, hooker Kevin O’Byrne says the preparations have been going well.

“With Johann, JP (Ferreira) and Denis (Logan) bringing in some fresh and new ideas, it has been different. The change up has been good and it has been refreshing.

While van Graan and Ferreira are from rugby backgrounds, Denis Logan’s made the switch from American Football to rugby when joining Munster as Aled Walters replacement. O’Byrne says some different training routines have kept the players on their toes.

“Some of the warm up stuff that we do, quick feet, power positions and stuff like that. It’s only small stuff but it’s new and it keeps you guessing as your are not doing the same thing day after day.”

Munster have recruited well over the last months with the arrival of Arno Botha and Joey Carberry complimenting a good crop of academy talent. While there are still some outstanding injuries, players like Farrell and Cloete are working their way back to fitness.

Munster Rugby Squad Training, UL, Limerick 13/8/2018. Matt More, Dan Goggin, Alex McHenry, Darren Sweetnam and Stephen Fitzgerald. Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/Bryan Keane

O’Byrne says Munster are a good place and is hoping to see some action against London Irish on Friday evening in the first game on the new 4g surface in Musgrave Park.

“Hopefully on Friday night, I get a run and put my best foot forward and just show what I can do.

Watch the interview in full on the link below.