VIDEO: Conor Murray commends Keith Earl's 'mental strength' while injured

Ireland scrum half Conor Murray discussed Keith Earls, who is back on form after a recent long injury lay-off today.

Playing with Earls since their school days, Murray said he was always a special player.

“He’s a special talent and I think everyone in our group knows how lucky we are to have him.

“He’s had a tough run of injuries and it’s been pretty tough on him over the last couple of seasons, but it’s no surprise to me because I know him so well to see him playing like this, but it’s great to see him doing what he does on the world stage.

Clearly in awe of his team mate, Murray commended his mental strength during his injury that put him on the sideline for 29 months.

“In terms of his mental strength it’s incredible,” Murray said, “that amount of time out of the game watching those two Six Nations, that’s got to be tough on any player.

“And to have the mental strength and durability to bounce back, it’s a long time out of the game and a lot of lonely hours with the physio. He was obviously dreaming of this and he’s taken his chance incredibly well.”

Shaun Cronin, head sports reporter, breakingnews.ie speaking about the Ireland v Italy RWC pool match with Nick Purewal, PA Rugby Correspondent at the Ireland Rugby team Captain's run in the Olympic Stadium, UK. Video by Dan Linehan