Bernard Jackman and Sean Cronin are backing Munster's Gavin Coombes to earn an Ireland recall for the Six Nations.
Ireland head coach Andy Farrell is due to name his squad tomorrow morning, with the Munster number 8 looking to get back involved after falling out of favour in November.
Having initially been included in the squad for the Autumn Nations Series, Coombes struggled to make an impression during Ireland A's defeat to a New Zealand Select XV at the RDS, and was left out of the main squad for the second and third games of the block against Fiji and Australia.
Since that disappointment, the 25-year-old has started all eight games for Munster, and has arguably been their best player in that time, scoring six tries in that period.
And speaking on the RTÉ Rugby podcast, Jackman says he's been equally impressed with Coombes' efforts on the other side of the ball.
"I would have been worried about some of his tackle technique," Jackman said.
"I didn't think he was a great tackler for a back row, he was very much focused on what he's world class at, which is carrying. That game against the All Blacks [for Ireland A], didn't go well for him, and for lots of players, and he lost out on opportunities and minutes.
"He's reacted in an incredibly positive way. It's a great sign for him. Even the legends of Irish rugby and Munster rugby like Conor [Murray] and Peter O'Mahony would have had times over a career where they had a dip or were questioned or asked to improve in a certain area, and they did. Now they've had phenomenal careers.
"Coombes, being able to take that disappointment and come back better, not just last weekend against Northampton where he was very active with 15 carries, but against Northampton away he had 25 tackles and led the tackle stats. He just looks like he's got a better build to stay in the game minute by minute, whereas before he was a brilliant man for big moments. Now he's put his hand up."
And Jackman believes the Munster number 8 could potentially add to his two Test caps during the Six Nations.
"Jack Conan hasn't had a massive amount of gametime, Leinster have been flirting with a Baird, Van der Flier and Doris partnership, so it'll be interesting if he can get minutes in the Six Nations.
"I love the fact he [Coombes] played lock a couple of weeks ago as well, because that will be very useful for him for a World Cup squad, having that versatility," he added.
Likewise, Sean Cronin is expecting to see Coombes back in Andy Farrell's plans.
"Going back to the All Blacks XV game in November, the game didn't go well for a number of guys, but with Coombes it's his metres in contact which is so impressive.
"He's coupled that with his tackle technique and stats. He's definitely put himself in the shop window playing really well, with big moments throughout the game.
"I'd be surprised if he wasn't involved in that squad tomorrow," the former Leinster and Ireland hooker said.
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