u/PatientOffer319

9 is currently the biggest worry for Ireland. JGP was brilliant against England and Italy but very poor vs France. When the whole system revolves around 9 we need other options in case he's injured or out of form.

Fortunately when it comes to the backups there's no lack of quality, just lack of game time. The one window since 2023 that JGP was injured Casey came in and was the best player on the pitch before his concussion. Hasn't been backed at since then and people are wondering why he looks to have stalled for Ireland.

Best thing possible would be for JGP to be left at home for the Nations championship. For a player of his age it'll help ensure he does get to the world cup, and it'll give Casey, Doak and whoever else (Devine or Murphy, Ben O'Donnell if they want an outside punt, someone who can bring someone different having come through a different pathway. Maybe they'll want to keep looking at Gunne even though he hasn't massively pushed on this season).

Four Tier 1 games there, give a start each to Casey and Doak in the first two and go from there. Worst case scenario they'll have experience come the world cup. Best case one of them shines given the opportunity and we can have some actual competition for the 9 jersey.