John Kirwan praises Piri Weepu

Blues coach John Kirwan has insisted that Piri Weepu has "shown great leadership" since returning to the squad in pre-season.

The New Zealand half-back came under criticism last season for returning from the World Cup short of fitness, but Kirwan has branded his involvement thus far "brilliant".

"He's shown great leadership, great guidance of the young guys and great input into what we're doing as a team," Kirwan told Sky Sports News.

"I didn't know Piri, I'd heard a lot of great things about him in the environment but he's actually been brilliant."

Weepu has made 69 appearances for his country.