Tadhg Furlong Poised for Ireland Comeback Against Fiji

Ireland prop Tadhg Furlong, whose last appearance for the national team was against South Africa in July, is anticipated to make his initial appearance of the autumn series this Saturday at the Aviva Stadium, facing Fiji. The tight-head prop sustained a hamstring injury during training prior to Ireland’s match against the All Blacks, leading to his absence from both that defeat and the subsequent victory over Argentina. However, Furlong participated in training on Tuesday. Ireland scrum coach John Fogarty characterized the 32-year-old as “bullish,” stating, “[Furlong is] full of energy.” Fogarty further commented, “He got through the session [Tuesday] and he will be assessed as we go along.” He added, “I’d say [he is] bullish, he’s eager to get back and excited to be in and around the team again. It’s lonely when you’re outside of that so he’s excited to be in and around the team, and we are excited as well.” Additionally, Ulster prop Tom O’Toole is also projected to be available for Saturday’s game, having been unavailable for the Argentina fixture, though Ryan Baird remains sidelined due to injury. While modifications to the squad are anticipated for what marks Ireland’s third of four games this month, Fogarty emphasized the team’s intention to respect the challenge posed by their opponents, Fiji, who have secured wins against Wales and Spain but suffered a loss to Scotland this November. Fogarty elaborated, “I think it’s important that we are doing right by everyone in our side, continuing to look for a performance.” He continued, “Fiji have improved. We played them two years ago and they’ve certainly improved. You see that through the Wales game, they didn’t quite have the full side out in that Scotland match, but they’re a dangerous side.” He concluded, “So, it’s important that we are focusing on developing a good performance. Andy [Farrell] and ourselves will select accordingly.”