Chris Morgan: Cornish Pirates captain eyes coaching role at end of playing career

Chris Morgan led the Pirates out with his children ahead of Saturday's game with London Irish

Cornish Pirates captain Chris Morgan hopes to take a coaching role at the club when his playing career ends.

The 35-year-old celebrated his 200th game for Championship club in their 35-24 loss to leaders London Irish.

Morgan, who is in his 11th year at the Mennaye, has already been helping with lineout coaching this season

"Hopefully I can move upstairs and help out in any way I can, and be a coach if there's a position there for me," he told BBC Radio Cornwall.

The former England youth international made his Pirates debut in October 2005, having previously played for Bristol in the Premiership.

The back-row missed most of last season with a shoulder injury, but has been a key figure once again this season.

"I'd like to stay in rugby for as long as I can as it's fantastic and sharing these kinds of times is awesome," he said.

Morgan helped the Pirates win the British and Irish Cup in 2010, and reach two Championship play-off finals - they are currently seventh in the table this season.

"I enjoy playing with the guys, I enjoy the challenge every week of playing against the good teams," he added.

"To be a part of the group and be out there playing with the guys and fighting, that's what makes it worthwhile.

"This group's got some special days ahead of it. We've all got a role to play.

"We've got piano players and piano pushers, I've been a piano pusher most of my career, but that's life and that's how it is and I wouldn't change it for the world because ultimately I like the battle and the fight."