No regrets - I will be there to cheer on Blues, says Bressie

But this time, the former Leinster player will be cheering on the boys in blue from the stands after revealing how he is looking forward to seeing the Heineken Cup final clash with Ulster first-hand.

"I've bought my ticket and booked the weekend off," he told the Herald.

And when asked about Leinster's chances of taking home the big prize, the strapping London-based star didn't hesitate: "Leinster are the Barcelona of the rugby world. They play stunning rugby and are one of the best teams I have seen in years."

Coach

The Voice mentor has a lengthy history with Leinster coach Joe Schmidt, having met him while he was playing U-14 rugby in his hometown in Westmeath.

"He was incredible. We were really lucky to have him in Mullingar. He's the best coach Leinster ever had," he said.

The ex-Blizzards star previously played back row for Leinster from 2001 to 2004, after going to UCD on a scholarship. He said he "absolutely loved it", but decided to quit when he had the chance of success in the music world.

He says he always knew Leinster was going to turn out to be "incredible". "It is nice to say that I was once involved with a Leinster team that achieved so much," he said. "But I've no regrets. You choose your route in life and I'm quite happy with what I've done."

mfinn@herald.ie