WITH CIAN HEALY’S suspension being unnecessarily complicated, at least Ireland are able to call upon an experienced and in-form loose-head while he’s sidelined for… however long he’ll be kept out.

Tom Court has been much-maligned since arriving in Ireland from Brisbane. His last appearance in green was that humiliating outing in Twickenham last  March.

However, much of the reason many think poorly of his is because he has been poor for Ireland – at tight-head.

These days, coaches can pick two props on the bench, but before this season Court was used as adequate cover for the number three shirt.

Since being allowed settle on the other side of the scrum, Court has thrived and helped make Ulster’s the most potent scrum in Ireland.

John Afoa may rightly get the lion’s share of the plaudits for the set-piece’s power, but alongside him Rory Best and Court have ensured there is no weak link.

Asked today what Tom Court brings to the pack, defence coach Anthony Foley said: ”He’ll bring a hard edge up front. A good set-piece. A lot of enthusiasm, obviously he’s got a point to prove.

“He’s been playing very well for Ulster coming into the Six Nations and was unfortunate to miss out on the first couple of games. Coming in he’ll bring a reason as to why he (feels) he should be selected for the ongoing basis.

“That’s what you’re looking for from someone coming in; putting their hand up and dominate in that position.”

He’s got a decent set of hands too…. not to mention a hilarious Ronaldo-esque celebration.

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