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Fergus McFadden observes a scrum at the Aviva Stadium. ©INPHO/Dan Sheridan
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Waiting on the wings: McFadden happy to take his Irish chances where they come

The Kildare native wants a spot in the Irish centre but will settle for a starring role out right against Fiji.

DECLAN KIDNEY SEEMS to have made his mind up – Fergus McFadden is a winger.

Despite McFadden’s protestations that his future lies in the centre of the Leinster and Ireland backline, Kidney does not seem to share the view.

He has started twice at outside centre in his 15 caps and the image of George North flattening him at the Aviva Stadium in February is indelible.

Every player will face chastening moments like McFadden’s Welsh flaying in their career and the Kildare native rebounded well to finish the season a Heineken Cup winner with Leinster.

McFadden started that win over Ulster in the same position he lines up against Fiji today – on the right wing.

Chance to breathe

McFadden maintains that the mood in the Irish camp remains upbeat despite the 16-12 loss to South Africa last week.

“It was a good team performance but they strangled out the last part of the game so we didn’t get any scores,” he told Irish Rugby TV.

He believes that the additions of Paddy Jackson, Craig Gilroy, Darren Cave and Luke Marshall to the backline will add some attacking impetus to a side that has failed to score a try in their last two outings. He said:

There are some fresh faces in this week that are really looking forward to taking their opportunities.

“I’ve played with Darren all the way up, under-age and stuff, and Luke has slotted in well. Paddy Jackson has a old head on young shoulders.”

Cutting out the scraps

After the stifling experiences of away dates in New Zealand and England, and the stonewall Springbok defence at Lansdowne Road, McFadden will be looking to improve Ireland dismal record of three tries in five matches.

He said, “We’ll be looking to put a bit of structure on the game because the Fijians feed off scraps, loose balls and turnovers.”

“The Fijians are renowned for how aggressive and physical they are,” McFadden added.

“They’ve got some massive men all across the board – the backs and the forwards. They’ll definitely be physically imposing but we’ll be up for it.

“A lot of lads didn’t get that much game time last week and will be looking to get out of the blocks.”

*TheScore.ie will be covering all the action at Thomond Park from 5pm.

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