Simon Zebo disappointed with Ireland axe but has no regrets over France move

Simon Zebo says he has no regrets about moving to France despite being omitted from Ireland's squad for the November Tests.

The 27-year-old was left out by Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt after announcing he will leave Munster for the Top 14 at the end of the season.

Speaking to the media after Munster's loss to Connacht on Friday, Zebo said: "I spoke to Joe and he explained his reasons around it and obviously you know that could potentially happen, but it's never easy when you are not involved in a squad.

"If I wasn't able to compete or if I didn't think I was good enough then it would just go over my head, but it's a level that I should be at.

I've French family, I'm half French and I like the way rugby is played over there, so it was an obvious fit for me to go and try and experience.

"I've proven I should be at it, so that's why it's disappointing, but I'll back the boys. They'll go at it hammer and tongs."

Zebo refused to confirm what club he will be joining, although Racing 92 is the reported destination, but says playing in France has long been an ambition of his.

"I'm the one who decided to be in that position and it's just like anything - playing for Munster was a dream of mine since I was a child, playing for Ireland was a dream, playing for the Lions and playing in France was a dream.

Live PRO14 Rugby Union

"I've French family, I'm half French and I like the way rugby is played over there, so it was an obvious fit for me to go and try and experience.

"I've a very short career so I wasn't going to let it go by without trying it.

"At least I've the balls to do it, I won't shirk away from a challenge so I won't look back on my career with any regret."