Ireland v Argentina talking points as Andy Farrell’s side look to make amends
Ireland were knocked off the top of the rankings following their loss to New Zealand last week.
Ireland’s autumn schedule continues with Argentina’s visit to Dublin.
Andy Farrell’s side will bid to respond against Los Pumas after last week’s deflating 23-13 defeat to New Zealand knocked them off the top of the world rankings.
Here, the PA news agency picks out some of the main talking points ahead of Friday’s match.
Bouncing back
Second chances
Farrell conceded some of his players are “lucky enough” to be retained after making just one change to his starting team. The Englishman, who has recalled centre Robbie Henshaw in place of Bundee Aki, expressed a desire to give individuals an opportunity to make amends when explaining his thinking. He also referenced Ireland’s relatively limited player pool. Based on comments made by captain Caelan Doris, the starting XV are well aware that their opening November outing has increased the pressure to perform.
History awaits Healy
A sizeable chunk of Ireland’s autumn squad were still at primary school when Cian Healy made his Test debut against Australia in 2009. Fifteen years on, the veteran prop is poised to make history by moving alongside former team-mate Brian O’Driscoll as Ireland’s most-capped player. Having largely provided back-up for first-choice loosehead Andrew Porter during the Farrell era, the 37-year-old will win the 133rd cap of his career, if he is brought on from the bench. “He’s been a legend of our squad for all these years and he continues to be so,” said Farrell.
Pumas ready to pounce?
