Tony Ward of the Irish Independent analyses the difficult job Ireland boss Declan Kidney has in keeping all of his squad members happy.
"There's a temptation to read a lot into the naming of 12 additional players to join an extended Irish squad ahead of next weekend's trek to Cardiff and the final showdown against the steam-rolling English at the Aviva seven days later.
"It makes for an enlarged squad of 34 but if there is any real relevance, it is in the context of the World Cup. It is a difficult balancing act for Declan Kidney in attempting to keep a dozen or so peripheral players happy. When you add Stephen Ferris, Jerry Flannery and Rob Kearney -- three automatic World Cup selections if fit -- then three of those named for 'guinea pig' duty this week will lose out.
"The players might know it but it doesn't make it any easier for them. In their minds, as it should be, they are the best for their position irrespective of the coach's take. Kidney wouldn't want it any other way.
"The player on the fringe who doesn't believe he is better than the man in possession shouldn't be involved at all. "
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