One of the most impressive aspects of the current Irish rugby squad is the depth at each position. Looking at the options Andy Farrell has at his disposal, it seems as though there are two or three top class performers for each role.
That is certainly true of the centre position. Ireland have a number of world class operators capable of playing at '12' or '13', with Bundee Aki, Garry Ringrose, and Robbie Henshaw having largely shared those duties in recent seasons.
The presence of that trio has also made it more difficult for other players to be selected. Stuart McCloskey, in particular, is someone who might feel a bit unfortunate not to have earned more test caps up this point in his career.
The Ulster man was not given an opportunity to shine under Joe Schmidt, and while he has now played his way into contention once again, there are reports suggesting that his Ireland career could be about to come to a premature end.
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Ireland rugby star drawing interest from French club
French outlet Sud Ouest are reporting that Stuart McCloskey is drawing interest from French club Aviron Bayonnais ahead of a potential move to the Top 14 side this summer.
The 31-year old's current contract expires at the end of the season, meaning he would be free to sign for another club over the coming months. Of course, a move abroad would mean that he would no longer be called up by Ireland due to the team's current selection policy.
Losing Stuart McCloskey would certainly be a huge blow to Ulster, who look set to undergo a major shakeup after the recent departure of head coach Dan McFarland. Will Addison has also been linked with an exit from the province in recent days.
It will be interesting to see how this story develops over the coming weeks and months.
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