Former Irish international Alan Quinlan said that Munster need to find a balance between playing their experienced players and integrating young members into the squad.
Speaking on Friday’s OTB AM, Quinlan said that Munster are a long way off to closing the gap with Leinster but investing in the younger players will create a greater competition within the squad.
“Munster have to integrate some of the young and exciting players from the Pro 14 into the team. Hopefully those players will get to a level where they are knocking on the door, but the pressure is there.
“You can’t look at just the South African players to win you games. The other players have to step up, play well and get more consistent.
“Munster have recently been lacking a small bit of quality so I think players like RG Snyman, who is a wrecking ball can get a turnover and score a try in a really tight game.”
Quinlan praised Munster and Ireland Under 20 lock Thomas Ahern as an important player for the future of Irish rugby.
The 6’9” Waterford man won the Under 20s Triple Crown in March and will now be competing with World Cup winner RG Snyman for a starting position on the Munster team. Which Quinlan says will help his development.
“He was fantastic for the Under 20s and there is an important part in his development at Munster.
“Thomas Ahern is not just a potential international, he is a potential lion. He is that good. So, Munster have to manage his time really well and make sure he is integrated into the team.
“Ideally, I love seeing more Munster guys in the team but sometimes the help from other players overseas will make you a better player.
“Sometimes things work out when there will be an injury or two and you'll get into the team, so, Thomas Ahern has to say he wants to play with these experienced guys and take on these guys for positions.”
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