Ireland host Italy in the Six Nations this weekend as they aim to bounce back from their defeat to France.
Robbie Henshaw is hoping to force his way into Andy Farrell's team after coming off the bench in Paris.
Henshaw was arguably Ireland’s standout performer last season and began all three British and Irish Lions Tests against South Africa in the summer.
But progress since returning from Lions duty has been hampered by injuries, leaving the influential 28-year-old on the periphery of Farrell’s team on the back of just three appearances for Leinster this term.
“It’s been a bit of a rocky one for me this year,” said Henshaw.
“I feel fresh, to be honest, so I’m ready to go, ready to step forward now.
“Obviously the stop-start season for me hasn’t been ideal but hoping for a stronger finish to the second half of the season.
“My body feels good, mentally I feel good, I feel sharp, so it’s exciting.”
Bundee Aki and Garry Ringrose have impressed as the first-choice midfield partnership in four of Ireland’s last five Tests, including the opening two rounds of the championship.
Henshaw’s only international start during that time came in the 53-7 win over Argentina in the final match of the autumn when Aki was rested as a precaution.
Following fitness issues, he was absent from Farrell’s matchday squad for the opening Six Nations victory against Wales – with Ulster’s James Hume preferred among the replacements – before returning with a 17-minute cameo in Paris.
Farrell will name his team on Friday for the Italy clash, which takes place on Sunday. You can predict your starting XV below:
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