Farrell optimistic he'll have a full slate for Springboks showdown 

While medical checks and minor concerns abound, head coach is upbeat about the fitness prospects of his 37-man panel

JUGGLING POSSIBILITIES: Ireland head coach Andy Farrell. Pic: INPHO/Dan Sheridan

Andy Farrell is optimistic he will have a full squad of players fit and available ahead of selection for Ireland’s opening November Test against world champions South Africa in 11 days.

Farrell’s world number one-ranked team will open their Bank of Ireland Nations Series at Aviva Stadium on November 5 looking to cement their position at the top of the World Rugby rankings that was secured with a historic series victory over the All Blacks in New Zealand this summer.