Lions concept is a readymade excuse

Few teams can run out onto a pitch with as many ready-made reasons for defeat as the Lions which, in itself, must be an issue for Warren Gatland, writes Brendan O’Brien.

Excuses, excuses. Sure, where would we be without them? The world of sports, for one, would be a much duller place given we’ve been treated to all manner of brilliantly ridiculous offerings from players, athletes, coaches, managers, administrators and spectators across the spectrum. And from all corners of this mad-as-a-brush planet.

No-one seems immune.