Tuesday 6 October 2015 21:37, UK
Ireland fly-half Ian Madigan believes boss Joe Schmidt will bring him back for Sunday's crucial World Cup clash with France.
The Leinster player watched from the bench as Ireland edged a nervy 16-9 victory over Italy at London's Olympic Stadium last weekend.
Ireland will avoid New Zealand in the last eight with victory over France, and Madigan is confident Schmidt will restore him for the French clash.
"It was the first game I think I've been on the bench when I haven't come onto the field of play," said Madigan.
"The way the game fell, I think we were lucky to hold onto the lead we had and close out the game.
"I think the tempo of the game meant not as many subs were used and not as early.
"In a faster game, you're more likely to bring on your nine and 10, and the likes of Luke Fitzgerald and Sean Cronin earlier.
"I've no doubt that Joe has full faith in his bench and that it's something he definitely thinks is a weapon for us."
Ireland's reward for victory over France would most likely provide a quarter-final against Argentina.
Philippe Saint-Andre's France have failed to beat Ireland in their last four meetings, but Schmidt's squad are not taking this week's foes lightly.
"We weren't at our best at all against Italy but it was the kind of test we needed ahead of this French game," said Madigan.
"There's definitely a feel that everything's cranked up this week.
"Even breakfast this morning, it was from eight until half nine, but the majority of the boys were in the breakfast room at eight o'clock.
"There was a queue for the laptops then after that and good intensity in the gym.
"Small groups getting together, the front-row, the locks, the half-backs, getting together in units and discussing what they are going to bring this week.
"The focus is rising all the time."
