Relaxed Dan Leavy embracing spotlight

Dan Leavy may be part of Ireland’s bright future, but in the build-up to his first Six Nations start in Dublin today, the 23-year-old’s pre-game thoughts will be sound-tracked by the soothing sounds of 70s disco.

The Leinster back-rower likes to keep his pre-match approach on an even keel and, though his musical tastes normally lean towards harder-edged bands, such as Linkin Park and Foo Fighters, in the hours before kick-off against Italy at the Aviva Stadium today there will be a definite switch to more relaxing tunes.

No superstitions or strict routines to adhere to, just anything that keeps Leavy focused and at ease.