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'I think we're missing that spark' | Malcolm O'Kelly on Ireland's World Cup squad

With the Ireland World Cup squad now officially being announced, there's a chance to analyse the ...



Rugby

'I think we're missing that spark' | Malcolm O'Kelly on Ireland's World Cup squad


With the Ireland World Cup squad now officially being announced, there's a chance to analyse the selections. Malcolm O'Kelly thinks the squad is missing something. 

Speaking on Off The Ball, the former Leinster lock thinks we need a few key players to be at their best for the World Cup.

"I think at the moment our squad is missing that spark that x-factor, can you put your finger on it?

"My favourite player -and I am turning into a real supporter now- is Dan Leavy. I think the squad could do with someone like him.

"Maybe someone like Peter O'Mahoney on absolute fire you know," he said.

Overall O'Kelly does think it's a good squad but we just need to be on song when the Word Cup comes around.

Back-up 9

"We have a strong squad we just have to get the guys up and going. You know this match on the weekend is huge for Ireland to really look at amping up the performance again.

"The squad is sound it's just about trying to get the absolute best out of them now.

"It's about finding those individual levels and attaining the highest manner of performance that we can," the former Leinster man said.

Luke McGrath was selected over Kieran Marmion as back-up 9 and Malcolm O'Kelly said he was not surprised with the selection.

"It was a hugely tight call and Luke [McGrath] must have performed incredibly well in training.

"For me, Luke is a real leader and every season he is just getting better and better.

"His performances have been excellent and I am excited for Luke it is a great opportunity for him," O'Kelly said.

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Irish Rugby Malcolm O'Kelly Rugby World Cup