Here is what he had to say…
On the prospect of being selected for Ireland in the Six Nations
(The virtual media briefing took place before the Ireland squad selection) …
“It’s always nice getting the opportunity to play, so getting more exposure in that environment would be great. It’s been tough because of injuries; I’ve missed quite a few games but hopefully I’ve done enough in that game [against Northampton] and put my name up for camp. I’m still in same position as the previous camp when I hadn’t played too many games but I was selected. It was quite a surprise that I got selected. I’m not sure what the story is this time but more exposure in the Six Nations would be great to experience.”
On getting the early try against Northampton…
“At the start of the game, we moved the ball wide quickly and got my hands on the ball and into the game, taking that first contact. Getting the try, the whole team involvement and getting around the corner in their 22 to beat the game line was class. I got a bit of an opportunity and was able to take it in the corner. I haven’t scored in a while, it feels like ages, so it was nice to get a try.”
On taking last weekend’s back line performance into Saturday’s clash with Clermont…
“We just focus on ourselves and try to get the ball to the edge. Training this week will be on how we perform that. We know the threats in Clermont but we have threats which we have demonstrated in games recently.”
On his development through the Sevens programme…
“Sevens is more about the basics like passing and tackling which are crucial when defending as a winger. It makes it easier playing 15s as there are more players around me and less space to defend. Transitioning to 15s was more about focusing on my positioning and being able to read tens kicking. It’s things like that I’ve focused on in training and JP [Jared Payne] has helped me. I’ve been able to stay focused and be ahead of the game with my positioning. That’s what I focused on to help me with 15s.
On Defence Coach, Jared Payne’s influence…
“I’ll be quite sad to see him go because he’s an unbelievable defence coach. Stuff that wouldn’t cross my mind, he’s already seen. It will be sad to see him go but he’s left us in a good place; our defence shows that. We will try to implement what he has talked to us about.”
On the prospect of securing a home fixture in the second leg of the Round of 16 if Ulster win on Saturday…
“I think it’s huge. It’s also a good target for us as a squad to try and aim for that. It’s hard to beat home advantage at Kingspan Stadium; the amount of pressure it takes off you and the support of the home fans is class. It’s unreal to play in and I love running out every time playing at Kingspan Stadium.
“It’s all to play for this weekend and Dan [McFarland] has made that clear in training. It’s a home game at Kingspan Stadium so we’re going to be raring to go. I haven’t played at home in a while so I’ll be looking forward to it and the rest of the boys are the same."
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