Connacht have been in impressive form of late, winning four of their last six RaboDirect PRO12 matches before their clash with Treviso last time out was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.
That means Lam will be able to see the lie of the land for Connacht's four remaining matches and the Kiwi is grateful for the opportunity.
"It's a mark of the man," Lam told the Irish Examiner of Elwood. "His blood is Connacht and this is an unusual situation, but it is possible because everyone believes it is best for Connacht rugby.
"Eric and myself only met for the first time this week, but the key thing is that we have total respect for each other and what each has achieved. We have a real passion for Connacht to succeed and we love the game of rugby."
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