‘Knee-jerk reaction’ to Wales defeat ruled out by Tainton

EXPECT a few tweaks here and there but there will be no “knee-jerk reaction” by the Irish brains trust this week as they digest last Sunday’s defeat to Wales and prepare for this Saturday’s follow-up against the French in Paris.

Keith Earls is back in contention for the 13 jersey and a replacement may well be required for Stephen Ferris depending on the deliberations in London today. But Declan Kidney’s starting side is unlikely to deviate much from last Sunday.

However, there are suggestions the selectors are toying with the idea of moving Jonathan Sexton to inside centre with Ronan O’Gara taking his spot at fly-half.