Wallace hoping to stay off treatment table

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Paddy Wallace hopes to stay out of the doctor's surgery after reclaiming his Ireland place for Sunday's Test against Australia.

Wallace started the RBS 6 Nations as first choice inside centre but managed just 92 minutes against France and Italy after suffering wounds to each eye.

They were the latest additions to an ever-lengthening list of injuries that have required stitches.

The 30-year-old Ulsterman was then demoted after playing against England with Gordon D'Arcy taking the number 12 jersey as Ireland completed the Grand Slam with victories over Scotland and Wales.

'This time I want to stay on the pitch and not get stitched up after 20 minutes again,' said Wallace.

'I must have had between 50 and 60 stitches in the last 16 months - and they've all been on or around the face.

'I got cut behind the ear against Munster and that opened up again in training on Monday and needed another four stitches.

'I'm going to need a good plastic surgeon.'

Selection has given Wallace an immediate chance to atone for his last meaningful act in an Irish shirt - conceding the late penalty that Wales fly-half Stephen Jones missed to ignite Ireland's Grand Slam party.

'It would have been tragic and life-changing had that kick gone over. I'm delighted it didn't,' he said.

Ulster's encouraging progress in the Heineken Cup and Magners League has propelled Wallace above D'Arcy for the autumn opener at Croke Park.

D'Arcy has struggled to nail down a regular place for Leinster and Wallace is delighted to have edged his friend and rival while both have been fit.

'It's a big deal to be picked over Gordon because he's played at such a high level for so long and has been on two Lions tours,' he said.

'I've known him since college days so we've got a very good relationship.

'Much as I'm delighted to be picked I've also been on the wrong end of selection calls so I feel for him as well. He'd be the first to congratulate me.

'I was delighted to get the nod this time because it was on a level playing field - neither of us were injured.

'Playing in an Ulster team that is doing well has helped week to week.'