Mapusua Seilala Mapusua

Former Samoa rugby internationals back Mapusua and Muliagatele

The former international teammates have signed two year deals after their appointments were endorsed by the Samoa Rugby Union Board.

Former Highlanders and London Irish Mapusua is light on head coaching experience - having led the Otago Under 19s in New Zealand for the past two years - but former Manu Samoa halfback Tino Junior Poluleuligaga said the news was refreshing.

Tino said Mapusua was an intelligent coach and believed he wouldn't be out of his depth.

New Manu Samoa, Manu 7s coaches appointed

The former Manu Samoa teammates have both signed two year deals after their appointments were endorsed and ratified by the Samoa Rugby Union Board last night.

Former Highlanders and London Irish midfielder Mapusua, 40, was born in Moto'otua and played 33 tests for Samoa and the Pacific Islanders between 2004 and 2013, including the Manu's famous win over Australia in 2011.

The Pacific Rugby Players board member was recommended by a five-person selection panel to replace Steve Jackson, who's contract expired at the end of last year.