Rob Kearney looks set to earn his 73rd cap against Scotland at Murrayfield at the weekend, but knows he cannot afford to relax. Entering his ninth Six Nations campaign the Louth full back is happy to see increased competition for places in Joe Schmidt's squad.
Since returning from an ankle injury Kearney has struggled to wrangle the Leinster number 15 shirt from Isa Nacewa. Simon Zebo andTiernan O'Halloran are also options for the Ireland full back slot. While Jared Payne could be deployed there when he returns from injury. Kearney says fighting for his place is nothing new.
Rob Kearney admits there is strong competition for his place in the @IrishRugby team, but says that's nothing new. pic.twitter.com/zkBlkbe0hJ
— Ross Lindsay (@Ross_A_Lindsay) January 30, 2017
Many fans are hoping there will be a Grand Slam decider between Ireland and England in Dublin over the St Patrick's weekend.
Irish coach Joe Schmidt admitted he is looking for a top two finish at last week's Six Nations launch in London. Rob Kearney says his message to the players is very different.
Joe may be targeting a @rbs_6_nations Top 2 finish, but Rob Kearney says he hasn't told the @IrishRugby squad. pic.twitter.com/8Fre7YOHWb
— Ross Lindsay (@Ross_A_Lindsay) January 30, 2017