Former Munster player Alan Quinlan says there are multiple similarities between modern back-row players.
The former flanker joined Friday's OTB AM to preview the start of the Autumn series.
Quinlan made comparisons between Irish players Jordi Murphy and Sean O'Brien's adaptability to play across the back-row.
"Sean O'Brien and Jordi Murphy have played number 8, and number 6 before, Leavy probably has. The modern day game, six and seven is quiet similar"
He also compared Australia's back-rowers and their versititlity to adapt between positions. David Pocock has predominantly played at open-side flanker but can slot into no. 8 position, seamlessly.
"We see Australia, the way they accommodate Hooper and Pocock in the last couple of years, they are two sevens, effectively. And Pocock is now an eight,' said Quinlan.
The Tipperary man believes today's player must have a varying repertoire of skills in order to keep pace with the speed of the game.
The former Lion says the similarities between and open-side and blind-side flanker means we see a lot more players like a traditional no. 7 on the both sides of the scrum.
"The game is gone so quick, we are seeing a lot of sixes and sevens compliment each other"
Ireland play Italy in Chicago tomorrow evening to kick-off the Autumn Series.
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