We’d like to introduce you to a new guest contributor today; he’s planning to share on his views on Munster rugby throughout the season.
Here’s Simon Perigoe with some brief thoughts on Joe Schmidt’s imminent selection headache
Four years ago Keith Earls was an integral part in Ireland and Munster's squad. However over the last few years he has picked up numerous injuries to decrease his game time.
A player who was the youngest Player on the 2009 Lions Tour (after Leigh Halfpenny was forced out due to injury) impressed with his pace and step that caused havoc to even the most experienced of defences.
While his attacking prowess has been hailed by both club and country his defensive ability has been questioned. Earls has shown vulnerability in this area and has been known to shy away from the tackle and be caught out of position. While these criticisms are in some ways justified people tend to judge him on his past performances and have not looked at how he has matured defensively over the last few years.
Since his return from injury at Munster this year in the Pro12 Earls has answered the sceptics time and and time again in defence, Not only that but he is one of the most tactically aware player in we have produced in recent years, He shows the know how to be in the right and react to situations in open play.
His try against Wales two weeks ago made that evident. Earls also possess the ability to cover many positions across the backline Winger, Centre and Fullback. This will be crucial in a World Cup where there will no doubt be injuries to have a squad man like Earls along with his pace this makes Earls a man that Schmidt may not start but would be a great player to bring off the bench as injection of pace and attacking skill.
Simon Perigoe is an avid fan of Munster and Ireland. Plays for his local side and loves nothing more then going down to Thomond Park and cheering on the Red Army
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