Sean O'Brien expects Andy Farrell and his coaches to be ruthless with their France 2023 selections - and predicts Ireland will finally make at least a World Cup semi-final.
The Tullow Tank played in two World Cups, in 2011 and '15, when Ireland went as far as they ever have - the quarter-finals - and no further.
This time can be different, he insisted.
"Whereas in past teams, we were always aware of the quarter-final thing, obviously the Irish squad will be aware of it but I don't think it will mean much to them in terms of any weight of pressure," said O'Brien.
"World Cups are always different so it gets to that stage where you rock up, it depends who you have, and it's another Test game.
"Do I think they'll get past the quarter-finals? Yes, I do, with the way things are going. There will be another few lads who will strengthen the squad as well.
"There will be a lot of headaches for the coaches. It will be exciting. Irish rugby is on a bit of a buzz, it's good to see."
Leinster's contact skills coach believes the province's centre Jamie Osborne can make the 32-man cut for France. He also singles out Munster's Jack Crowley and the uncapped John Hodnett as having a real chance.
"John Hodnett's coming along nicely," said O'Brien. "Someone like Jamie could be very important if he keeps developing the way he's going. He's a great young fella, good head on his shoulders.
"I don't think there's many people in danger right now but there's a bit of time until the World Cup. There will be pressure on the older guys.
"That's what you want but Andy and the coaches will pick on form when it comes to it. That's the ruthless streak in them - and it will have to be there.
"Those younger guys will definitely be in the mix. That's great, it keeps the standards high."
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