Ireland vs New Zealand: Andy Farrell dismisses talk the Irish are ‘weakened’ for Soldier Field return

Paddy McCarthy is the only player likely to make his Ireland debut on Saturday as the Leinster side earn a place on the bench.

McCarthy – the younger brother of Joe McCarthy – was an unused member of the Irish summer squad in Georgia and Portugal under caretaker coach Paul O’Connell, but Farrell said the 22-year-old had been on his radar since impressing for the Under-20s in a training session against the senior side in 2023.

“That’s why we train against the U-20 team, so we know who will qualify,” the 50-year-old said.

“I was asked: ‘Would you like to train against them this year?’ Imagine being in the U20s and not getting the chance to train against the first team and that happens every two years. It’s an incredible tradition.

“He has ruined our session on many occasions, but there is something in our eyes that not many people know about.”

With Cailan Doris starting on the bench after recovering from shoulder surgery, Dan Sheehan will captain Ireland for a second time, having previously captained the side against Wales in this year’s Six Nations Championship.

Farrell also picked Sheehan as captain for the British and Irish Lions’ clash against the Western Force in June, and while he has several players capable of delegating to Doris, he said he was amazed at the way the 27-year-old hooker has “developed as a leader”.

“He’s very calm, in control and thoughtful. He uses his body language to everyone else, he’s in control. It’s going to be okay. Let’s prepare properly.”

“It gives confidence throughout the team. Not only that, it doesn’t hinder his performance either. It’s a huge honor for him and I think this will continue to grow for him down the track.”