Ireland coach Eddie O’Sullivan discussed England’s historic visit to Croke Park and his team selection at Tuesday’s press conference in Killiney. See below for more.
ON PETER STRINGER’S HAND INJURY:
“The situation with Peter is encouraging at the moment. His progress slowed down this week but he had a workout yesterday and there has been no adverse reaction to it so far.
“We’ll give it another 48 hours and then take another look at the situation. He didn’t do any contact work, just fitness work and passing.”
ON GEORDAN MURPHY’S OMISSION FROM THE MATCHDAY 22:
“The exclusion of Geordan will be an issue for some because he’s been an ever-present in this side.
“But with Brian (O’Driscoll) back and Shane (Horgna) on the wing it was a scramble for the utility position on bench.
“Geordan is not firing on all cylinders at the moment, and Andrew (Trimble) has come back stronger.”
ON THE FEELINGS, GOOD AND BAD, TOWARDS ENGLAND’S VISIT TO CROKE PARK:
“It’s understandable that people will have issues in principle with what will happen on Saturday and they have a right to have those issues.
“It’s understandable they want to express them. That’s fine and healthy. It’s free speech.
“But if I was to have a dig at anyone, it’s at the media for gleefully fanning the flames – and not just the rugby media.
“With regards to the anthems, they have always been respected at Lansdowne Road. Our anthem has been respected wherever we’ve gone, and we hope that will be reciprocated.
“‘God Save the Queen’ was respected the last time it was played at Croke Park, at the Special Olympics three years ago.
“I expect it will be the same on Saturday. The one thing we can say about Irish sports fans is they’re the best in the world.
“They’re renowned for their capacity to embrace and be positive.”
ON THE IMPORTANCE OF SATURDAY’S GAME:
“The Triple Crown is still alive and we could still win the championship. The Grand Slam has definitely gone, but there’s no point dwelling on that.
“It’s a pivotal game in our championship. If we win we’re right back in it. If we lose, our championship is dead in the water and we’ll be fighting for a spot down the table.
“England also want to make it three out of three to keep themselves in the title race.”
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