With the attritional nature of the World Cup, Tommy Bowe thinks Ireland will need backup for stalwart Rob Kearney at 15.
Speaking on Tuesday's OTB AM, Bowe weighed up Ireland's potential options in the backfield.
“He can’t fully rely on Rob Kearney to play every game right through this World Cup.
"If we do need a little bit of x-factor having someone like Stockdale at 15 or Carbery works well," Bowe said.
The Ulster man really likes the idea of having Stockdale as Kearney's potential backup.
“I wouldn’t mind seeing Jacob Stockdale playing there I think he’s had another fantastic season. He’s shown he’s very good under a high ball and he’s played 15 last season for Ulster.
“Potentially to see Jacob at 15 with Jordan Lamour and Keith Earls on the two wings, that would be pretty exciting to see.
“Jacob spoke at the end of the season about how his preferred position is now 15, If he had an opportunity there," the former Ireland winger said.
In terms of the other back three options, Bowe felt no one has really raised their hand for selection.
Photo Credit: ©INPHO/Dan SheridanInternational experience
“Andrew Conway probably doesn’t have enough international experience and confidence at this level to put him in at full-back.”
“He hasn’t played enough in at full-back with Munster last year," he said.
Injuries are almost inevitable during a World Cup and as Bowe said our lack of depth at full-back is a big concern.
"You can't be carrying people so there will be some tough decisions made.
"If someone isn't fit and who isn't going to be pulling their weight in training, they might have to be left behind.
"That's why Joe has built such strength in depth in pretty much all positions right down through the squad.
"It's just at 15, there's nobody in my mind who has stepped up behind Rob Kearney," the former Ulster man said.
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