Reddan: Every session counts in build-up to New Zealand

DIFFERENT years, different coaches, different players too. Yet Eoin Reddan’s ambition remains the same – to get on the plane when Ireland head for the World Cup and to makes sure ambition is translated into success.

While Reddan is full of praise for the current coaching regime, the way the players are managed and the preparations for New Zealand 2011, he declined to level blame at Eddie O’Sullivan for Ireland’s embarrassing performances in France four years ago.

There were different circumstances, he believes, and cites unavailability of players in 2007 as probably having played a part in the outcome. “When 15 guys didn’t go on tour it probably changed the dynamics a bit, but I don’t think that was Eddie’s fault. The tour was on, what could he do?”