“We need to remind ourselves of the financial situation in recent years in this country and not get greedy”, the words this week of Ireland rugby manager Declan Kidney in response to a question asking whether a perfect season last year has raised expectations more than ever for Irish rugby.
Kidney and his management team were in Limerick this week for the second of their three training camps prior to the Autumn Internationals. Thirty seven players in all were involved with Munster’s Denis Fogarty being a late addition after Rory Best pulled out through injury. “Having all the players here gives us, as coaches, a chance to look at them more closely. As well as allowing the younger players to get used to being in the squad environment, the older, more experienced players are reminded of where they stand and that there is competition in the squad”.
The quest for another perfect season begins this November with Tests against Australia, Fiji and South Africa. Ireland are also hoping to play two ‘A’ games in the Autumn, with Argentina ‘A’ and an Irish province the most likely opponents. Dates and venues have yet to be decided upon for these games, Thomond Park however, will be an obvious choice for one and or both.
On the injury front, Rory Best is out for the season with a neck injury, while Tomas O Leary is back, but not taking part in contact. Jerry Flannery has a slight calf strain and will be out for a couple of weeks. Brian O Driscoll has had his pre season curtailled slightly by some laser eye surgery but the team captain is expected to be fit and well for the up coming games.
Sixty players in all are in Kidney’s radar for the new year. The Cork native is hoping to have three to four players for every position come the six nations.
“We need that back up. We need players who are prepared and familiar with our system, so that they can slot in when needed. We don’t know what is around the corner just yet, but we need to be ready for all eventualities.”
With the new season now just weeks away and with Heineken Cup and Magners League games looming, Declan and co will have their fingers crossed that everyone makes it through unscathed. With a Six Nations and Grand Slam to prepare for, spirit is high in the squad.
“Every time we name a team or a squad, it’s the best team and the best squad available at that time. These lads know when they pull on that jersey they are representing Ireland.
“We are not claiming to be the best in the World, all we can do is our best. Once this season is over, as long as we gave everything, we will be pleased. That is all we can ask for from anyone in any sport. Their best”.
