The Irish prop is hoping to make the squad for the upcoming tour of Australia and thinks it would be very “interesting” to work alongside the players he’s used to going up against.

He told Rugby World magazine: “You’re going up against lads that are the best in the business. Ellis [Genge] is starting for England, Pierre [Schoeman] is starting for Scotland. They’re incredible players and they’re not there for no reason.

“Not being presumptuous but if I’m going I know those two lads will probably be there as well.

“That’s given their form and qualities as players, and how big they are for their countries.

“It’s always that competition, of going up against lads like them that spurs you on. It gives you that extra spark.

“Everyone wants to be on that plane to Australia. If I was picked, it would definitely be interesting to train alongside people you’re so used to playing against.

“If it does come about, that sort of internal competition for jerseys is what makes great teams what they are.”

The 29-year-old sportsman praised Ireland boss Andy Farrell for encouraging his players to be themselves, which he thinks has made them a better team.

He said: “You can be so much closer as a team when you truly know someone.

“You know someone as just more than a rugby person – you know that human element, what’s inside of them, more about their background.

“You get them way more. That brings even more trust, which is huge when you have a high performing team.”