Conan may 'weigh up options' in 2018

Jack Conan says he will "weigh up the options" if he doesn't manage to displace Jamie Heaslip in the Leinster and Ireland back row by the end of next season.

The 25-year-old, who made his Leinster debut in 2014, made 20 appearances for his province last season and started for Ireland three times on the summer tour to the USA and Japan.

But the opportunity only came because of a back injury to Leinster and Ireland's first-choice number eight Heaslip, and Conan admits he is at an age and a stage in his career where he craves regular first-team action, either at blind-side flanker or at No 8.

"That’s something I'd have to think about at the end of the year," he said. 

"I'm with Leinster this year and next season as well. A lot of people would think I’m coming into my prime, so I suppose I’d have to weigh up my options at the end of that. 

"But as of right now I'm happy at Leinster and to compete with the rest of the lads."

Conan admits he will be disappointed if he fails to get a starting berth for Ireland's November internationals against South Africa, Fiji and Australia.

"I've put my hand up now and shown that I can play at that level and perform," he said.

"I was consistent throughout those three Tests but, in saying that, Jamie is coming back fit now. Jordi Murphy is back as well. That's just in Leinster alone, so the pressure is on.

"I just have to put the head down and hope that I get the nod in November."

Image Inpho/ Ryan Byrne

eir Sport channels are available across the eir Vision, Sky and Vodafone TV platforms as well as on the eir Sport app. All 7 channels in the eir Sport pack are available for free if you are a residential eir broadband customer