Ireland vs Georgia talking points: A chance for Billy Burns to shine and set-piece improvements needed

Billy Burns has a chance to shine for Ireland against Georgia

Ireland host Georgia on Sunday afternoon as the Autumn Nations Cup pool phase reaches its conclusion.

Ireland kicked off their campaign with a good win against Wales but were found wanting against England when they fell to a 18-7 loss at Twickenham.

They are expected to have too much for Georgia - who have been blanked by England and Wales - so coach Andy Farrell is using the third-round match to confirm who can take Ireland forward

Here, we look at some of the key talking points heading into the Dublin showdown.

Set-piece struggles

Ireland prop Andrew Porter

Ireland go into the game searching for a response to a disappointing fourth successive loss to rivals England. Set-piece errors undermined the quest for glory at Twickenham as Eddie Jones' World Cup finalists cruised to victory.

Line-out calls and binding at the scrum have been worked on significantly in the build-up to the game. Head coach Andy Farrell will be eager to see considerable improvements in those areas against physical opponents.

Farrell searching for squad depth

Andy Farrell in discussions with forwards coach Simon Easterby

Ireland's form has been patchy since Farrell took over from Joe Schmidt after last year's World Cup. The Englishman, who has lost three of his opening seven games, has named an experimental line-up for this weekend's Test, making nine changes to the team which started in London. Farrell is desperate to expand the player pool at his disposal and gain "priceless experience" within it. With transition comes setbacks, and Farrell has warned the Irish public they may have to remain patient and continue to endure some "growing pains".

Big opportunity for Burns

With veteran fly-half Johnny Sexton in the twilight of his career and currently injured, Farrell is particularly desperate for options for the No 10 jersey. Billy Burns has been given the nod this weekend for what will be his full debut and been challenged by Farrell to "run the show". Burns will be eager to build on his impressive Twickenham cameo and push himself ahead of rival Ross Byrne in the battle to become Sexton's long-term successor.

Centre of attention

Stuart McCloskey starts in the centre for Ireland

The raft of personnel changes has also afforded a fresh chance for Stuart McCloskey. Ulster centre McCloskey has been patiently awaiting an opportunity since winning the last of his three previous caps more than two years ago. While the 28-year-old is understandably keen to make up for lost time and stake a claim for a regular midfield spot, Farrell has urged him not to be "too desperate" to impress.

Pointless Georgia

Georgia going through their paces ahead of their clash with Ireland

Georgia will run out at the Aviva Stadium having so far failed to register a point in the competition. A 40-0 thumping against England was followed by an 18-0 defeat to Wales. The Lelos have also lost each of their four previous clashes with Ireland, most recently 49-7 in November 2014. Georgia captain Merab Sharikadze has called on his team to be less wasteful with their opportunities as they bid to spring a surprise.