D'Arcy thrives on competition
Friday, 20 November 2009 11:51Gordon D'Arcy insists there is greater depth to Irish rugby, from provincial to national level, than ever before.
D'Arcy has been recalled for Saturday's clash with Fiji at the Royal Dublin Society after losing out to Paddy Wallace for the autumn opener against Australia.
The 29-year-old, who has suffered more than most through injury, finished the Grand Slam as first-choice centre and knows just how quickly things can change.
'This is probably the most competitive season, from Leinster right through to Ireland,' he said.
'The so-called younger guys now have 15-20 caps, so they're not exactly novices any more.
'They might only be 21, 22 or 23 years old but they can't be called inexperienced. They've all played. They've all won a Grand Slam.
'It's just red-hot competition - which is the way the coaches want it, I suppose.
'Obviously not getting selected is always a tough thing but I always find that spurs you on.
'I tend not to read too much into things. In my career, I've seen that three months can be a long time in rugby.
'Right the way through my career things have been turned on their head like a 2p piece in the space of three months.'
D'Arcy is one of eight changes to the team that drew 20-20 with Australia on Sunday and will feature among a Leinster-dominated backline, with only Munster winger Keith Earls breaking the monopoly.
'The fear of being dropped helps motivate me and it's the same for everyone else in their position,' said D'Arcy.
'A lot of guys are getting their chances this weekend and they basically have to grab it with both hands.
'That in itself puts pressure on the guy who played last week and then whoever gets picked against South Africa really has to perform.
'It can only be good for Ireland.'
