Since joining Munster from Bristol Bears in 2022, Antoine Frisch has become a regular under Graham Rowntree.
The 27-year-old has impressed both Munster and Ireland fans, and appeared for the Emerging Ireland team for their tour in South Africa the same year he joined the province.
While his performances have shown that he could be a option for Andy Farrell and the national side, Ireland's strength in depth when it comes to midfield options have halted Frisch's progression.
Last month, the French-born centre expressed his desire to represent Les Bleus and he is expected to be named in their squad for the test series in Argentina with Fabien Galthie likely resting some of his Six Nations squad.
5 October 2022; Antoine Frisch of Emerging Ireland in action against Sebastian De Klerk of Airlink Pumas during the Toyota Challenge match between Airlink Pumas and Emerging Ireland at Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein, South Africa. Photo by Johan Pretorius/Sportsfile
If Antoine Frisch does get capped by France, it would take up another of Munster's NIQ places with fellow centre Alex Nankivell already in the squad.
Munster dismiss speculation of Frisch departure
The Fontainebleu native has scored four tries in 16 appearances for Munster this year and still has a year left on his contract, but with his admirations to represent Fabien Galthie's side, he's been linked with moves to Montpellier and Toulon.
Munster's assistant coach Mike Prendergast has dismissed speculation about Frisch's future and speaking at Wednesday's press conference, he said:
Being perfectly honest, I still read a bit of the French media myself, I coached over there for so long.
I've seen it in the media over there, but from our perspective, as far as we know, Antoine will be here next year as well.
The pro he is, he's managed to put all that stuff aside, and I'm sure he's hearing and seeing whatever, but he's here and he's fully on board with us at the moment.
Munster are currently in South Africa preparing for their clash against The Bulls on Saturday. Jake White's side sit two points ahead of the Irish province in the URC standings and will have a relatively fresh and fit squad for the game afetr resting the majority for alst week's Champions Cup clash against Northampton.
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