The Left Wing

Blurb: Cian Tracey and Ruaidhri O'Connor have added Jonathan Bradley from the Belfast Telegraph to their line-up. The lads discuss first their impressions of Yokohama, how the weather is going to be a big factor this weekend and why Christian Lealiifano's remarkable recovery is already the story of the World Cup.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Just another day of drama at the World Cup where Wales have lost a coach and the Ireland back-three is looking depleted ahead of the opening weekend. Ruaidhri O'Connor and Cian Tracey bring you the latest news and views from the Ireland base in Yokohama.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Left Wing in association with Aldi, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined in studio by their World Cup-signing, Fergus McFadden.The Leinster star is signed up with the Left Wing for the duration of the tournament in Japan, and starts by looking back on his World Cup memories - both good and bad.McFadden made the 2011 squad - at Luke's expense - before falling just outside the cut line in 2015. He talks about the difficulties of missing out on selection as well as telling some brilliant stories about his time in New Zealand.The lads also talk about the challenges that pop up from being away for such a long period of time, as well as why it's important for the fringe players to keep focused even if they aren't in selection contention.With Ireland set to start their World Cup against Scotland this weekend, the guys also discuss the lengthening injury list. With Rob Kearney, Keith Earls and Robbie Henshaw in danger of missing out, the possible Ireland selection is up for debate.Joe Schmidt's fullback options, New Zealand vs South Africa and the threat of Fiji are all also up for discussion.For more from the Left Wing you can visitwww.independent.ie/podcasts/the-left-wing/The Left Wing is sponsored by Aldi.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cian Tracey and Ruaidhri O'Connor are back after another night of breaking Ireland injury news as Rob Kearney becomes the latest doubt for Sunday's opener against Scotland. We hear from Rhys Ruddock and his brother Ciaran (S&C coach), who both played for the Ireland U-20s at the 2009 Junior World Cup in Japan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Independent.ie's Cian Tracey and Ruaidhri O’Connor are in Chiba and they’re getting used to life in Japan where Ireand are not giving up hope on injured star Robbie Henshaw who will miss the opener against Scotland but remains hopeful of playing a part at the World Cup. Ireland scrum coach Greg Feek gives an update on the Leinster man, while the lads discuss sumo, the inclement weather and Ireland’s strategy for basing themselves in a charmless suburb outside Tokyo.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Before heading off to the Far East on their great Rugby World Cup adventure, the Irish Independent’s Ruaidhri O’Connor and Cian Tracy joined Luke Fitzgerald and Will Slattery to preview the tournament, give their predictions on how far Ireland will go and who will win the tournament. Looking ahead to Ireland’s likely strongest XV Luke disagrees with the consensus on Bundee Aki getting the nod ahead of Garry Ringrose saying it’s even worse than the Devin Toner situation.“They’re going to pick a 16 stone guy who’s a big lump ahead of Garry Ringrose. He shouldn’t be on the team. The guy is a blow-in. It’s going to annoy me watching it. Ringrose is a super-star in the making, he is class and more creative. Aki is getting away with it and it’s wrong and doesn’t sit well with me. What’s going on here? We’re not picking any of the Irish guys? Ringrose has got the potential to be the next Drico.”Striking a pessimistic note, none of the panel can see Ireland getting past the quarter-finals either, be it New Zealand or South Africa that we end up facing.“It will be a close match against New Zealand,” says Luke. “And against South Africa their pack will be an issue for us. South Africa are on form and timing their run well and with a heavy heart I can’t see us beating them.”“What would be worse though,” says Ruaidhri O’Connor. “Is if we beat New Zealand in the quarter-finals, we all lose our minds and then lose to Wales in the semi.”That or Eddie Jones and England winning the World Cup.For more from the Left Wing you can visitwww.independent.ie/podcasts/the-left-wing/The Left Wing is sponsored by Aldi.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Ireland gear up for their final warm-up game against Wales before they depart for Japan next week, Cian Tracey and Jonathan Bradley discuss the importance of having an almost fully squad to pick from.We hear from Rory Best who talks about the lineout issues as Jean Kleyn looks for a big performance after a tricky week. The lads agree that there is a lot to like about having CJ Stander and Jack Conan starting in the same back-row.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fresh from being called a xenophobic, Brexit-eering, Boris Johnson wannabe, Luke Fitzgerald is back on the Left Wing with Will Slattery this week to defend and explain his anger at the Devin Toner World Cup snub.“We’re not talking about people coming over in a boat like refugees. We’re trying to keep the international game separate and special. It’s special to be Irish, you can’t just give it out for nothing.”Luke also believes that many players in the Irish World Cup squad feel the same way and don’t agree with Joe Schmidt’s decision.Voicing his opinions and disappointment on the show was Ian Madigan who has played under Schmidt at Rugby World Cups and gives an insight into the decision-making process to Schmidt’s game-plan.Plus, the lads discuss the other parts of the squad make-up including the omission of Will Addison and the lack of depth at 9.For more from the Left Wing you can visitwww.independent.ie/podcasts/the-left-wing/ The Left Wing is sponsored by Aldi.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After Ireland's record defeat to England at Twickenham, Joe Schmidt has picked his team for the redemption mission against Wales in Cardiff.Cian Tracey, Ruaidhri O'Connor and Jonathan Bradley look at his back-row selection, the role of Will Addison and Rory Best's captaincy as the World Cup looms large.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The record defeat to England was a dark day for Irish rugby and the issues that were in evidence are still there. Ireland needs to find its form and find it badly is the view from this week’s Left Wing podcast with the Irish Independent’s rugby correspondent, Ruaidhri O’Connor, joining Luke Fitzgerald and Will Slattery.What went wrong is fixable says Luke but he’s more concerned with the lack of leadership on the team.“There’s lots of really good players in the back-line but where are the personalities?” he asks. “Where are the individuals who would grab the game by the scruff of the neck when things are going wrong? Personalities like Drico, Horgan, O’Gara, where are they? There’s too many Indians and not enough Chiefs there.”The future of Rory Best and what he brings to the team is also questioned severely by Ruaidhri who believes his rate of decline has been alarming.Looking ahead to the crunch Wales game on Saturday this will be an important chapter in determining Ireland’s World Cup story. But there’s enough good players there to turn it around so there’s still hope yet.For more from the Left Wing you can visithttps://www.independent.ie/podcasts/the-left-wing/The Left Wing is sponsored by Aldi.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Left Wing is back for another season and Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are on hand to discuss all the latest news around Ireland's World Cup preparation.The lads start off by discussing the long pre-season preparation ahead of the World Cup, as Luke looks back on the experiences he had in preparing for the big tournament under Joe Schmidt in 2015. Luke says that the long build-up can be both mentally and physically draining and that it is important that Schmidt gets the balance between work and rest over the next few weeks.The lads also discuss the selection dilemmas facing Ireland, including how many out-halves and scrum-halves to bring to Japan. It looks to be a battle between Ross Byrne and Jack Carty and Kieran Marmion and Luke McGrath to get on the plane. Munster team-mates Tadhg Beirne and Jean Kleyn also look to be competing for a slot, and Luke thinks that Beirne should get the nod.The Left Wing is sponsored by Aldi.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Alan Quinlan to review the 2018/19 season.Leinster saw off Glasgow in a tight PRO14 final last Saturday and Alan was impressed by the steel showed by Leinster to dig out the win. He also say that it was a very positive season for Leinster but Luke thinks the team has a lot to work on after the defeat by Saracens in the Champions Cup final.For Munster, there has been a lot of upheaval behind the scenes while the team failed again at the semi-final stage in both competitions. Alan thinks a more expansive style of play would work wonders for the team and Luke says they are missing one key man in the backline.Finally, Ireland will soon go into camp ahead of the World Cup. Luke gives his opinion on the tweaks Joe Schmidt needs to make to have success at the World Cup.Luke also talks about meeting up with the Leinster Heineken Cup-winning team of 2009 on the ten year anniversary of their win.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald look ahead to the PRO 14 final and discuss last weekend's semi-final.The lads start off by discussing Glasgow's comprehensive win over Ulster, and Luke asks why Ulster haven't been able to get over the line and win a trophy in the last ten years. Leinster vs Munster turned out to be one-sided on the scoreboard and Luke thinks Munster are missing one play-maker in the backline to really take the next step. For Leinster, Ross Byrne got the nod to start against Munster and Luke thinks this is a sign that Leinster have a succession plan in place to take over from Johnny Sexton.And with Rob Kearney currently negotiating a new contract with the IRFU, Luke Fitzgerald explains how difficult it can be when you are facing an uncertain future in professional rugby.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Cian Tracey to discuss the Champions Cup final.Saracens clinched a third European crown in four seasons after seeing off Leinster, producing a powerful performance to run out 20-10 winners. The lads start by discussing one of the game's pivotal moments - Leinster's decision not to kick the ball out at the end of the first half. Luke thinks too much has been made of Luke McGrath's decision and that the game was lost elsewhere. Leinster's lack of line-speed and attacking problems on the day are also discussed - as is Saracens' top quality display.The lads also look ahead to the PRO 14 semi-finals next weekend, with Glasgow hosting Ulster and Leinster taking on Munster at the RDS.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald preview the Champions Cup final with Cian Tracey and Ruaidhri O'Connor of the Irish Independent.Leinster vs Saracens is the dream final match-up, pitting last year's winners against the side who won back-to-back European crowns in 2016 and 2017. Leinster got the better of the English giants in the quarter-final last year en route to glory but Saracens are fully fit and firing on all cylinders ahead of this weekend's tie.The lads go through some of the mouthwatering head-to-head match-ups that could decide the outcome, from Mako Vunipola vs Cian Healy to Owen Farrell vs Johnny Sexton.Luke says the the battle between the packs will decide the outcome, while Ruaidhri thinks that referee Jerome Garces could be a key figure after allowing a free-for-all at the breakdown in the semi-final between Saracens and Munster.The lads also debate who is the best Champions Cup team ever, and look back at Leinster's journey over the last ten years on the anniversary of their first ever Heineken Cup triumph.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald discuss the PRO 14 knock-out stage and Munster's trophy ambitions.Johann van Graan's men take on Benetton in the PRO 14 quarter-final as they look to win their first trophy since the 2011 league title, with an away semi-final against Leinster awaiting them if they prevail. Luke thinks Munster are lacking an X-Factor star in the backline like Leinster's James Lowe, but says that he still fancies them to win the PRO 14.In the other quarter-final, Ulster host Connacht at Kingspan Stadium. Luke thinks that Ulster have got their recruitment right in recent seasons by focusing on the pack, and from a Connacht perspective thinks that head coach Andy Friend should opt for Caolin Blade over Kieran Marmion at scrum-half.Luke also weighs in on Jerome Garces' Champions Cup final appointment as well as picking out one Leinster young player who he thinks could have a big future.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined in studio by Leinster back row Jack Conan to discuss the Champions Cup semi-final win over Toulouse and much more.Conan played a key role as Leo Cullen's men booked their place in the Champions Cup final in Newcastle, and the big number eight takes us inside the Leinster set-up as he explains how the team got the job done at the Aviva Stadium.The lads also look ahead to the mouthwatering clash between Saracens and Leinster in this year's final, with the two teams having won the last three European titles between them. Conan is relishing the chance to go up against one of Europe's heavyweights and is also looking forward to his own personal battle with Billy Vunipola.Conan also discusses his own preparation, from why he switched to mostly eating vegetables to the importance of being self-critical when assessing your performance. The 26-year-old also talks about his life off the pitch, including why he decided to go back to college having previously neglected his studies.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Munster and Ireland legend Denis Leamy to preview the Champions Cup semi-finals.Munster are looking to qualify for their first European Cup final since 2008 as they face Saracens at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry. Johann van Graan's men are underdogs for the final four clash but Leamy thinks that Munster can produce a famous win.For Leinster, Leo Cullen must decide which two players to select from James Lowe, Scott Fardy and Jamison Gibson-Park due to foreign player restrictions. Luke Fitzgerald thinks that Lowe has to start and that Johnny Sexton's return to fitness could be crucial in tipping the game in Leinster's favour.Luke and Denis also look back on the famous European Cup semi-final between Leinster and Munster at Croke Park on the ten-year anniversary. Leinster beat Munster that day en route to their first Heineken Cup win and Leamy thinks that it was a season that set Leinster up for future success.Will and Luke also discuss the new season of Game of Thrones and Will asks how the podcast fared during his absence last week.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cian Tracey fills the sizeable boots of Will Slattery, and he is joined by Luke Fitzgerald ahead of another busy week.Ireland Sevens made history by qualifying for the World Series for the first time and Luke believes having another avenue for players can only benefit Irish Rugby.Connacht face a season defining game against Cardiff and Luke and Cian discuss how securing Champions Cup rugby is the next stage of the Westerners' development.The lads analyse Munster's back-three options. Luke reckon's Johann van Graan's side must be brave against Saracens, but before that they have to see off a rapidly improving Benetton side.Luke is of the view that there will be a big response from Leinster at home having as Leo Cullen welcomes back two key men in Robbie Henshaw and Devin Toner.Plus, Cian and Luke talk about Will Addison's set-back and call for a reaction from Ulster to finish the season on a high.For more from the Left Wing visit:www.independent.ie/podcasts/the-left-wing/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined on the line by Tommy Bowe to discuss a cracking weekend of European rugby.Leinster pipped Ulster in an enthralling quarter-final tie at the Aviva Stadium, and Bowe thinks that the northern province have a lot to be positive about despite the defeat.As former international wings, Fitzgerald and Bowe are well placed to discuss Jacob Stockdale's error in the act of finishing, and both think that the Ulster star will bounce back stronger from the incident.The lads also weigh in on whether or not the World Rugby should outlaw the jackal at the breakdown as injuries such as the one that befell Dan Leavy increase. Tadhg Beirne's theatrical reaction to a shoulder charge, Keith Earls' stellar performance and the mouthwatering semi-final line-up are also up for discussion.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Champions Cup is back after the post-traumatic stress suffered from the Six Nations campaign and with all four provinces in action this weekend there’s a lot to look forward to with Will Slattery, Cian Tracey and Luke Fitzgerald previewing all the action on this week's episode.The inter-pro tie between Leinster and Ulster is the pick of the quarter finals while the panel reckons Edinburgh v Munster will also be a tight game with Edinburgh’s own Scottish internationals coming back buoyed after their draw against England.Luke and co are all going for Leinster and Munster to win while Connacht’s chances in the Challenge Cup depend strongly on how much they rotate their team selection.Plus, after the news that Paul O'Connell will not be staying on at Stade Francis, does he have a future in coaching? And on the 10th anniversary of the infamous ‘Bloodgate’ game between Harlequins and Leinster, Will and Luke look back on that match and the fall-out and aftermath from it all.For more from the Left Wing visit www.independent.ie/podcasts/the-left-wing/The Left Wing podcast is in association with Aldi.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It may have been a disappointing Six Nations campaign but on this week’s Left Wing podcast, Luke Fitzgerald believes everyone should just calm down and catch themselves on. The panel of Will Slattery, Cian Tracey and Luke discuss the fall-out from the defeat to Wales and the criticism being levelled at the coach and players“Things aren’t that bad,” says Luke. “We still have the best coach in the world and none of these players have gone bad overnight. This will have hurt Joe but now is not the time to be overriding what got us here. Joe needs to believe in himself now as does the team.”With all eyes turning next to the World Cup, just what kind of legacy will Schmidt and this team end up with? Whatever happens though, the future is still bright with the Grand Slam success of the Irish U20s.Plus, the panel discuss how we should view this Wales team in the pantheon of Grand Slam winners and will England be a real danger at the World Cup?For more from the Left Wing visit www.independent.ie/podcasts/the-left-wing/The Left Wing podcast is in association with Aldi.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s the end of an era as Ireland face Wales in Cardiff this Saturday. In the last Six Nations game for both Joe Schmidt and Warren Gatland, the winner decides who has the best head-to-head record against each other and Luke Fitzgerald believes the game is going to be ‘an absolute war’. Plenty to look forward to then, even if it’s unlikely that Ireland will retain their Six Nations title, and Irish Independent’s rugby correspondent, Ruaidhri O’Connor joined Luke Fitzgerald and Will Slattery on this week’s Left Wing podcast to preview the final action in the 2019 Six Nations.The panel discussed how much Sean O’Brien’s place is in danger, with one eye on the World Cup, “He needs regular starts, he’s too good a player not to be considered. But Sean has a lot of work to do and he needs to hit form,” said O’Connor.Whilst there’s also the conundrum of Tadhg Beirne not getting more game time under Schmidt. “Joe is the best coach in the world but he’s an odd selector and some of his choices are hard to understand,” said Luke.For their predictions, Luke was going for an Ireland win and England to beat Scotland, while Ruaidhri reckons Wales have the momentum to win them the Grand Slam in Gatland’s last game in charge.For more from the Left Wing podcast visit www.independent.ie/podcasts/the-left-wing/The Left Wing podcast is in association with Aldi.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bernard Jackman joins Luke Fitzgerald and Will Slattery on this week’s Left Wing to preview Ireland’s Six Nations clash against France, plus Jackman discusses life after the Dragons, and why Welsh rugby is in turmoil over Project Reset, Luke gives his thoughts on the criticism of Johnny Sexton’s outbursts and why he believes the player needs to ‘take it down slightly’.“I’m uneasy about someone as smart as he is and as good as he is that he’s unable to slightly change it. Take it down slightly, is it helping you at the moment?”Luke and Bernard give their verdict on reports that Sean Cronin will be left out of the matchday squad.“He is probably the best bench hooker in the world,” says Jackman. “And it’s incredibly tough to be dropping him altogether.”“I don’t get it, it stinks of something else,” says Luke.Plus, Bernard Jackman on his future plans for his next coaching role and why only relying on coaching doesn’t help with your career or the pressure.For more from the Left Wing podcast visit www.independent.ie/podcasts/the-left-wing/The Left Wing podcast is in association with Aldi.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are Ireland really as bad as some pundits are making them out to be or have expectations for Irish rugby just risen to insane heights? Luke Fitzgerald, Will Slattery and Cian Tracey review Ireland’s first three games in the Six Nations and wonder if the glass is half-full or half empty.“This isn’t the time for an overhaul,” believes Luke. “But it is time to think about the basics that have been the bedrock of this team. The players are wanting it too much at the moment and look a bit tense and are over-running it a bit. They need to figure out how to want it whilst being calm to deliver on things. The lads need to go for a few drinks and just relax a bit.”Two wins over France and Wales and the perspective would start to look very different with Cian pointing out that the team training in Belfast this week will be a welcome change of scene away from the intense bubble of Carton House.The panel also discusses the merits of picking Quinn Roux ahead of Iain Henderson, plus Luke defends his stance on Ulster rugby over the last few years, the abuse he has been getting on social media and why he’s sticking to his opinions.For more from the Left Wing podcast visit www.independent.ie/podcasts/the-left-wing/The Left Wing podcast is in association with Aldi.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a Left-Wing podcast exclusive, Ireland legend, Paul O'Connell, joined Will and Luke to talk all things rugby. The former Ireland captain opened up on the challenges of coaching in France with Stade Francais, recalled his memories of winning the 2015 Six Nations and the impact it had in the lead up to the World Cup later that year, and says why he wouldn't make wholesale changes for the next Six Nations clash against Italy.For more from the Left Wing podcast visit www.independent.ie/podcasts/the-left-wing/The Left Wing podcast is in association with Aldi.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald and joined in studio by Leinster and Ireland scrum-half Luke McGrath to discuss his career to date.McGrath made his Leinster debut as a 19-year-old back in 2012, and is now one of the senior players. The former St Michael's College pupil opens up on his rise through the ranks, having captained his home province from an early age.McGrath is currently sidelined with a knee injury but is hoping to be back in early March for his province. McGrath talks about the intricacies of playing scrum-half and what he has learned from playing alongside Johnny Sexton for club and country.Luke Fitzgerald also discusses his comments on Jacob Stockdale on last weekend's podcast and gives an assessment of Ireland's performance against Scotland.For more from the Left Wing podcast visit www.independent.ie/podcasts/the-left-wing/The Left Wing podcast is in association with Aldi.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The mood may have been sombre in the aftermath of the comprehensive defeat to England in the Six Nations at the weekend, but for Luke Fitzgerald, it's about looking to the bigger picture."This is not the end of the world. Everyone just calm down. Let's for once in our lives say it’s about the World Cup," Luke told Will Slattery and Cian Tracey on this week's episode of the Left Wing. "Who cares about the Six Nations? We have a chance to do something special with this team in the World Cup."Apart from the players' lack of physicality, the lack of atmosphere was also an issue."It shouldn't take the All Blacks coming to town for there to be an incredible atmosphere," said Cian. "It was so noticeable coming up to kick-off how empty the stadium was."In the short-term there's the game against Scotland to come and the panel reckon Ireland will do it and not repeat the mistakes from the English game."They haven’t delivered this time, it’s ok, they’ve a great coach to put things right and they’ll beat Scotland," says Luke.For more from the Left Wing podcast visit www.independent.ie/podcasts/the-left-wing/The Left Wing podcast is in association with Aldi.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s Joe Schmidt’s last Six Nations with Ireland and he’s sure to want to go out on a winning note, but should one eye be on the World Cup and our chances there?On this week’s Left Wing podcast, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Irish Independent Rugby Correspondent, Ruaidhri O’Connor, and outspoken columnist, Neil Francis, to look ahead to Ireland’s opening clash against England as well our chances of winning the tournament overall.Plus, former Irish international, Fiona Steed, gives the run down on the Irish Womens’ Six Nations. The opening games against England on Friday and the clash against France will be their toughest challenges and a top three finish should be Ireland’s goal, she tells Will and Luke.One of the main talking points however, is whether Joe Schmidt should be looking to blood new players in the coming weeks with the World Cup year in mind and Luke says he’d rather a drop off in the Six Nations than the World Cup.‘It’s all about the quality of coaches,’ says Neil Francis. ‘Joe will figure out how to beat the opposition, even if it takes until the second half against the English.’For more from the Left Wing podcast visit https://www.independent.ie/podcasts/the-left-wing/The Left Wing podcast is in association with Aldi.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Six Nations may be fast approaching, but so are the Schools Rugby cup competitions and in a special bonus episode on the Left Wing, Tony Ward joins Will and Luke to preview this year's Schools Rugby with a special supplement appearing in Saturday's Irish Independent.The usual suspects - Blackrock and St. Michaels - are the favourites once again, but Belvedere and Clongowes can never be discounted, while the stand-out tie for the weekend opening fixtures has to be Terenure v St. Marys."The competition was always big," says Tony. "But it's getting bigger and bigger and so are the players as well."With a background on every squad covered, Tony Ward also features Temple Carrig school in Greystones which he believes will be a force in the years to come.For more from the Left Wing just go to:https://www.independent.ie/podcasts/the-left-wing/And don't forget, you can get the 2019 Schools Rugby supplement in Saturday's Irish Independent.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Ian Madigan to discuss his first season in the Premiership with Bristol.Madigan joined Bristol in 2017 and won promotion to the top flight after a year in the Championship. Madigan opens up on the challenges and excitement of playing Premiership rugby, as well as talking about how the Bristol project is developing under Pat Lam.Madigan also discusses his hopes of an Ireland recall as well as the development of Joey Carbery as he looks to challenge Johnny Sexton for the starting out-half jersey.It was also another great weekend for the provinces, with all four Irish teams booking European quarter-final places. Luke and Will look back on a brilliant weekend for Irish rugby as well as Joe Schmidt's surprise decision to select Jack Carty ahead of Ross Byrne in his Six Nations squad.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week’s episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by the Irish Independent’s Cian Tracey to look back on a cracking weekend of Champions Cup rugby.All four Irish provinces won in Europe, and the lads start off by talking about Ulster’s big win over Racing 92.Jacob Stockdale crossed for two more tries and Luke pays tribute to the Irish winger, who is in sensational form.Simon Zebo was allegedly subjected to racial abuse from the Kingspan crowd in Belfast, and the panel weigh in on the incident.Munster and Leinster also enjoyed important wins, with Joey Carbery’s form, Scott Fardy’s place among Leinster imports and Garry Ringrose’s development all up for discussion.Luke also has praise for Connacht after they saw off Sale at the Sportsgrounds in the Challenge Cup.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined in studio by Irish Independent rugby correspondent Ruaidhri O'Connor to look ahead to a massive weekend of Champions Cup rugby.Leinster, Munster and Ulster all have a chance of qualifying for the quarter-finals and are facing into tough European tests. Munster are first up on Friday night with a trip to Gloucester, with Leinster and Ulster hosting French giants Toulouse and Racing 92 respectively on Saturday.Luke is predicting an Irish clean sweep while Ruaidhri thinks Ulster could be the team that runs into trouble.The lads also discuss Connacht centre Tom Farrell's emergence this season and whether he might be called into Joe Schmidt's Ireland squad for the 2019 Six Nations. Will also asks the lads whether the amount of Leinster talent across the four provinces - 26 of the 60 starters in the weekend's inter-pros were from Leinster - is diluting the unique identity of the teams.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week’s episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined in studio by Irish Independent rugby correspondent Cian Tracey to look back at the festive rugby and look ahead to 2019.Will is billing 2019 as the biggest year in the history of Irish rugby and the lads agree that there is a lot to be excited about ahead of the World Cup.Looking back at Leinster vs Munster at Thomond Park, Johnny Sexton’s fiery style of captaincy is discussed. Luke thinks that Sexton will learn from the tough outing and will improve his dialogue with referees as a result.Connacht’s continued growth, Munster’s attacking structure and Ulster’s development are all up for discussion as The Left Wing returns for 2019.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Jordi Murphy to discuss his move from Leinster to Ulster and his career to date.Murphy made the decision midway through last season to move up north, and he explains why he decided to leave Leinster after seven seasons. The Ireland back row also discusses the misconceptions around players from the Republic of Ireland moving to Belfast to play for Ulster, and says his experience has been a really positive one.Ulster have gone through a number of changes on and off the field in the last few years and Murphy gives an insight into head coach Dan McFarland and his coaching staff.Luke and Will also discuss what Christmas is like for rugby players, rugby Christmas parties and go over all the Champions Cup action from last weekend. The lads are in agreement that Castres were guilty of some very cynical play against Munster, but Luke thinks that Johann van Graan's men are often guilty of poor discipline themselves.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week’s episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Munster and Ireland second row Tadhg Beirne to discuss his unique journey to the top.Beirne was let go by Leinster in 2016 and signed with the Scarlets in Wales. He quickly became one of the stars of the PRO 12 and won the league in his first season before signing with Munster.Beirne opens up on the tough parts of his journey, like the injury problems he had at Leinster, as well as the success he has achieved since, culminating in winning his first international cap last June.Luke and Will also discuss last weekend’s Champions Cup action, which featured a clean sweep from the Irish provinces.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week’s episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined in studio by Irish Independent rugby correspondent Cian Tracey to discuss all the latest rugby news.The lads start with their belated reaction to the news that Andy Farrell will replace Joe Schmidt as Ireland head coach after the World Cup, with Luke saying that it’s a natural time to move on after a brilliant tenure.Talk moves to Leinster’s strength in depth after their big win over the Dragons, with Will asking how the province is able to hold onto so much young talent.Joey Carbery’s continued development at out-half, Ulster’s progress under Dan McFarland and Connacht’s good form are also up for debate.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week’s episode of the Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by USA Eagles Head Coach Gary Gold and USA attack coach Greg McWilliams to discuss this weekend’s game and the state of US rugby.Greg has previously been the Director of Rugby of St Michael’s College and the backs coach for the Irish women’s team so he is well placed to asses the current state of Irish rugby as well as the journey American rugby is going on. Gary’s background as a former Springboks assistant and an ex-head coach in the Premiership gives him a unique perspective to talk about the state of world rugby as well as his American mission.Ireland’s position in the world rugby rankings, USA’s potential and this weekend’s game are all on the agenda too.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined in studio by Ireland second row James Ryan to discuss the huge win over the All Blacks as well as his phenomenal year.Ryan played a big role in the victory over the back-to-back world champions, and he reflects on the superb achievement after what has been a memorable year for the Irish team. Ryan looks back on his sharp rise in 2018 that saw him win the PRO 14, Champions Cup and Grand Slam, and also talks about the serious hamstring injury he suffered in 2016 that ruled him out for almost an entire year.The talented 22-year-old opens up on areas of his game he wants to work on as well as his experience being coached by Joe Schmidt.Luke also looks back on Ireland's win over the All Blacks - including his prediction that Ireland would lose by 15 points!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's epsiode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Wasps and former Leinster out-half Jimmy Gopperth to preview Ireland's blockbuster clash with New Zealand.It's world number two hosting world number one at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday and Gopperth cannot wait to watch the action unfold. He says that Ireland have to hold onto the ball for long periods and frustrate the All Balcks if they want to come out on the right side of the result.Gopperth also thinks that Joe Schmidt should be given the chance to succeed Steve Hansen as All Blacks head coach after the 2019 World Cup.Fitzgerald thinks that it could be a tough day for Ireland, as is predicting that the visitors will win by at least two tries.Luke also looks back on his clashes against the All Blacks as a player, including the heartbreaking 22-20 defeat in 2013.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined in studio by Leinster and Ireland prop Cian Healy to discuss the November internationals and his career to date.Healy is a key part of Joe Schmidt's Ireland team who have big matches against Argentina and New Zealand this month, and the powerful prop says that the games are crucial to achieve his goal of the team getting to number one in the world.Healy also discusses his early days at Leinster when he broke into the team as a 21-year-old and the early growing pains he had as a prop.There were also some tough injury-hit years where Healy suffered from nerve damage and he explains to the lads just how tough it was to return to his top form.Healy's knife-making hobby, the art of scrummaging and the 2019 World Cup are also up for discussion in the in-depth chat.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined Irish Independent rugby correspondent Ruaidhri O'Connor to preview the November internationals.Ireland face Italy, Argentina, New Zealand and USA in an action-packed four-match schedule and the lads break down the various selection headaches Joe Schmidt has as he attempts to select his best team from a very strong squad.Robbie Henshaw, Bundee Aki and Garry Ringrose are fighting for two starting spots in the centre and Luke thinks that Ringrose is the one player of the three who is nailed on. At hooker, 36-year-old Rory Best is expected to start against the All Blacks but Luke says that Niall Scannell and Sean Cronin should both be ahead of him.There's also the small matter of Joe Schmidt deciding his Ireland future - should Schmidt extend his stay for another four years or will his tenure reach its natural conclusion after the World Cup?England's struggles under Eddie Jones, Ireland's deep back row and the Conor Murray conspiracy theories are also up for discussion.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined in studio by Leinster duo James Tracy and Rory O'Loughlin to discuss their careers to date.The lads start off by recapping Leinster's narrow defeat in Toulouse, a game that James and Rory were in the squad for. Rory chats about the hair-raising atmosphere in France while James gives an insight into the painstaking post-match review sessions that Leinster conduct after each game.The guys also delve into the tough journey they had to make the breakthrough at Leinster, with James not playing for a full year under Matt O'Connor while Rory was uncertain about his professional future as he entered the final year of his academy contract.The lads also give an insight into working under Stuart Lancaster, Leo Cullen and Joe Schmidt as they outline the differences between training with Leinster and Ireland.James' switch from prop to hooker and Rory's eye-opening experience on the wing early on in his Leinster career are also up for discussion.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined in studio by Cian Tracey of the Irish Independent to discuss the first weekend of Champions Cup action.Leinster dished out a serious statement of intent against Wasps, winning 52-3 and the lads delve into how the reigning champions have got even better this season. Luke talks about the performance of Luke McGrath and how he has improved his overall game while Will and Cian chat about how James Ryan has already emerged as leader in the team.Munster also got a great result, drawing away to Exeter and although Luke thinks they have room to improve in attack, he says they are set for a big performance against Gloucester. Ulster also had a big win at home to Leicester, and Cian thinks that new man Will Addison could be included in Ireland's squad in November after another stellar display.The lads also discuss the fall of Leicester and Toulon, Maro Itoje's taunting, Luke's comments on Danny Cipriani and Will unveils his European power rankings.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined in studio by Irish Independent rugby correspondents Ruaidhri O'Connor and Cian Tracey to preview this season's Champions Cup.Holders Leinster get the tournament underway on Friday night against Wasps and the lads think that Leo Cullen's men will be tough to beat in this year's competition. Leinster have a tricky trip to Toulouse coming up next weekend and Cian Tracey thinks that the away encounter will be the champions' biggest test in the pool stage.For Munster, they start their campaign with a very difficult game away to Exeter. Luke Fitzgerald fears for them at Sandy Park and thinks that Exeter could leave Thomond Park with a win later in the campaign too.Ulster have been landed in a tough pool with Racing 92, Scarlets and Leicester and none of the panel think that they will make it out of the group.Simon Zebo's scintillating form in Paris and his international prospects are discussed, as is Danny Cipriani's up and down career as well as the biggest challengers to Leinster in this year's tournament.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week’s episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by James Lowe to talk about his time at Leinster and his career to date.Lowe’s all-action style has won him plenty of plaudits since moving to Ireland, and he discusses his unique playing style and how he developed it.He also chats about his time with the Chiefs in Super Rugby, the difference between northern and Southern Hemisphere rugby and his experience training with the All Blacks.Lowe also reveals his tough family circumstances and how he is determined to help out at home through his rugby career.The lads also ask Lowe about his international rugby aspirations, with Lowe qualifying for Ireland in 2019.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week’s episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined in studio by Irish Independent rugby correspondent Cian Tracey to discuss the start of the season.Munster have had a bumpy ride with new out-half Joey Carbery but Luke is confident that the talented ten will come good soon.The lads also debate player privacy regarding injuries after the recent case of Conor Murray declining to disclose the reason behind his absence. There have been new tackle laws introduced that season that have proved very controversial - are they a good thing for the game?Leinster’s strong start, unbeaten Ulster and the feelgood factor in Connacht are all up for discussion too.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined in studio by Leinster out-half Ross Byrne to discuss his career to date.Byrne has made over 45 appearances for Leinster since 2016 and has become a key man in a team that won the PRO14 and Champions Cup last season. Byrne opens up on his development from a rookie who came on against Northampton at Franklin's Gardens to an out-half who regularly starts big games for Leinster.Byrne travelled to Australia as part of the Ireland squad last summer and he opens up on the eye-opening experience of stepping up to train with Joe Schmidt's squad. The 23-year-old also discusses the different elements of playing out-half as well as playing with his younger brother Harry, another out-half who is in the Leinster academy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald is joined by Ireland and Connacht second row Ultan Dillane to discuss his journey from Tralee RFC to international rugby.Dillane moved from Paris to Kerry at the age of seven and after a spell in the Munster underage set-up he ended up accepting a Connacht academy contract.He explains his unusual journey to the top as well as his breakout year in 2016 when he made his international debut against England at Twickenham.Dillane is targeting a return to the Ireland set-up after a tough 2018 and he talks about his hopes for the new season under Connacht head coach Andy Friend.Also, Luke and Will discuss the weekend's PRO14 action as well as Leicester's decision to sack Matt O'Connor after just one match.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of The Left Wing, Will Slattery and Luke Fitzgerald are joined by Ulster scrum-half John Cooney to discuss his breakout season last year as well as his hopes for the upcoming campaign.Cooney made the move from Connacht to Ulster in 2017 and won the club's Player of the Season. He explains why he originally decided to leave Leinster in 2014 and how he motivates himself with memories of the times in his career when he wasn't getting much game time.Ulster have made a fresh start this season with new head coach Dan McFarland and Cooney gives an insight into the new regime up north as well as what it's like working with backs coach Dwayne Peel and defence coach Jared Payne. Cooney also earned a recall to the Ireland squad last summer for the tour of Australia, and he says that he is hoping to play a part in Joe Schmidt's squad in what is a World Cup year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.