Murray has a major role in Ireland future, insists Farrell

Coach expecting ‘good things’ from Munster star after winning scrum-half selection battle

ANDY FARRELL says Conor Murray has a big part to play in Ireland’s future after sticking with the Munster scrum-half for Saturday’s Six Nations opener against Scotland.

The 30-year-old held off the challenge of John Cooney in the biggest call the new coach made yesterday as he unveiled his side 48 hours before the tournament deadline.

Leinster pair Caelan Doris and Ronan Kelleher will make their debuts, with the No8 starting and the hooker on the bench, while Jordan Larmour starts at full-back after overcoming his foot issue. Bundee Aki gets the nod ahead of Robbie Henshaw at centre.

All eyes were on the No 9 shirt when the team was named, but Farrell has huge faith in what Murray can deliver.

“We’ve had three really competitive sessions and Conor has been really, really good. There’s been a lot of chat, one-on-ones, and he’s brimming at the minute,” he said.

“We’re expecting good things from Conor at the weekend.

“I watched his last game as well. He had a couple of weeks’ break. He’s unbelievably determined to kick his career on. I’m excited about his future as well as the other two nines.

“I am open-minded, honestly. I’ll make whatever choices are right for the team.

“Competition for places is at the forefront of my mind and I’ll watch for the rest of this week and I’ll watch on Saturday and we’ll assess where we need to go.

“The Six Nations is unbelievably attritional and I suppose we’ll see a few different combinations along the way.”

Scotland name their team tomorrow.