Bristol Bears have signed Ireland fly-half Harry Byrne on loan from Leinster.

Byrne has penned a three-month deal at the Premiership side and the Bears say he will act as cover for AJ MacGinty who is set to miss the next four months with a knee injury.

The 25-year-old has made 75 appearances for Leinster and played four times for his country.

“It was important for us to bring in some additional cover at fly-half,” Bristol director of rugby Pat Lam said.

“Harry is a quality international player who is very experienced at domestic and European level, representing one of the top clubs in world rugby.

“His style of play is well suited to the Bears Way, and I would like to thank Leo Cullen and Leinster Rugby for allowing Harry to join us.

“When I spoke to him, he was excited to come and play for the Bears and his experience will be valuable on and off the field as we head into a busy period of Premiership and Champions Cup rugby.”

The Bears are next in Premiership action when they travel to Saracens on 4 January.