'Old man' Quinlan thriving in new era

Veteran flanker Alan Quinlan admits he feels like the “old man” of Declan Kidney’s youthful Ireland squad – but claims he has been rejuvenated by the arrival of his former provincial boss on the international scene.

The 34-year-old came off the bench to score the penultimate and best of Ireland's eight tries in Saturday evening’s 55-0 stroll against Canada at Thomond Park.

Six of the other scores came from players aged under 25 – Keith Earls, Rob Kearney (two), Tommy Bowe (two) and Jamie Heaslip – on a night that provided hope for an Irish public still reeling from a traumatic 14 months.

Ulster’s Stephen Ferris, 23, also put in a monumental display at blindside, and Kidney, by his own admission, now has some difficult decisions to make ahead of next Saturday’s daunting clash with New Zealand at Croke Park.

Popular Munster back row Quinlan is widely expected to oust Ferris for the All Blacks match, but he insists he is just happy to be involved in an international set-up refreshed by the arrival of Kidney, who led the province to Heineken Cup triumphs in 2006 and 2008.

“It’s an exciting place to be at the moment with all the new coaches and people involved,” Quinlan said.

“There’s a bit of momentum building and we’ll all keep our feet on the ground.

“It’s an exciting challenge which lies ahead against a superb All Blacks team.

“It’s just a good place to be at the moment and hopefully I can stay in the squad.”

The explosive arrival of full-back Earls into the Ireland team – he scored a try with his first international touch after three minutes of his debut – has given Quinlan particular reason to feel every one of his years.

“I feel like an old man – I played with his dad (openside flanker Ger Earls) and against him for years, and it’s kind of strange playing with Keith now,” he admitted.

“He’s a very exciting prospect but the key for Keith is that he’s a very balanced young lad and keeps his feet on the ground. He’s willing to work really hard and has a great attitude about him.

“He’s not going to get excited. It’s obviously extra special for him to score on his debut, but he has a great work ethic, he’s a great player with a massive future.”