James Ryan backs 'serious athlete' Edwin Edogbo to make impact in Paris

Ireland open their Six Nations campaign against France on Thursday.

James Ryan with Tadhg Furlong at The Campus, Quinta do Lago on Sunday. Pic: INPHO/Ben Brady

James Ryan believes the addition of Edwin Edogbo to the second row selection mix will be a big benefit to Ireland’s ability to combat French forward firepower in Paris this Thursday night.

Edogbo, 23, could be in line to earn his Test debut in the Guinness Six Nations opener at Stade de France after impressing on the training field at last week’s training camp in Portugal, his first involvement in an Irish set-up since he wore the green jersey for the Ireland Under-18 Clubs side against Italy.