A DEPLETED IRISH squad will have to play two Test matches against sides eager to claim a major international scalp on home turf.

For a moment there, when the lads were all churning away in sweat vests at Carton House, we almost felt sorry for them. Then, via Twitter, instagram, yfrog and tour photographers Inpho, these pictures started to flood in.

Some guys have all the luck:

Mike ‘Maverick’ McCarthy and Chris ‘Goose’ Henry on the plane to America.

Target practice at the firing range for Tommy O’Donnell.

Target practice for Mike Sherry (with a camera on his head) in training. (©Inpho/Billy Stickland)

Back for a ‘recovery session’ at the pool for Dan Tuohy and the boys.

Then time for some hoops. ‘Devin’s on our team!” (©Inpho/Billy Stickland)

It wasn’t all good as Chris Henry packed a European adaptor for the USA and Canada. (Credit: @paul_marshall)

Still, if in doubt, dance it out. (©Inpho/Billy Stickland)

Ireland play the US Eagles, in Houston, on Saturday and Canada, in Toronto, on 15 June. TG4 will broadcast both games live.

Marmion ready for Ireland start but no underage drinks for Henshaw

Tommy O’Donnell ready for Ireland debut after outstanding Munster season