Robert Splaine is hoping the team that placed second in last year’s US nations cup will get his new term as manager off to a good start today when they line out in Florida.

Cian O’Connor is already giving indication of another successful partnership, notching up a double with his latest acquisition Walk Tall II on week seven of the FTI Winter Equestrian Festival in Florida.

After seven years making sometimes difficult decisions, Robert Splaine is realistic to know his reappointment as Ireland show jumping manager may not be greeted with unanimous acclaim.