Former Ireland back row Alan Quinlan has backed his country to defeat France in the opening match of this year’s Six Nations tournament.
France host their rivals in Marseille on Friday night, and while France are regarded by many as potential winners - capable of a Grand Slam - Ireland are credible opponents and a strong showing could hint at their own potential.
Quinlan told Betway that he could even see them winning at the Velodrome.
He said: “I think we will see a spring in Ireland. A new era, a couple of new players coming in. I am incredibly excited about the power and physicality of Joe McCarthy.
“Jack Crowley might be under less pressure because he knows he is the main man now and Calvin Nash is in on the wing.
“He replaces the injured Mack Hansen who is a big loss because he is such a good footballer and for his ability to come in off his wing to be a playmaker. I have a good feeling that Ireland can win. But it will be tight. One score.”
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