Autumn internationals: Kurtley Beale has been welcomed back into Australia squad, says Quade Cooper

Quade Cooper says Australia's players are happy to welcome ‘bad boy’ Kurtley Beale back into the national squad following his recent controversies.

The 25-year-old utility back has returned to the squad under new coach Michael Cheika and he may even find himself on the bench for this weekend’s game against Ireland in Dublin.

Beale has been fined twice by the Australia Rugby Union following his misdemeanours, mostly recently in October after he was involved in an argument with an ARU official while flying between South Africa and Brazil.

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He was also left out of the squad by previous coach Ewen McKenzie who has since been replaced by Cheika.

However, Cheika has now decided to offer him another chance at international level and Cooper says his fellow squad members are pleased to see Beale wearing a Wallabies’ tracksuit again.

The Queensland Reds fly-half said: "From a team point of view he (Beale) offers a lot, everyone's happy to have him here. Cheiks speaks highly of him and knows his ability as a player.

"None of us are here to play politicians, or politics, we're all here with the same focus of improving as a rugby team, and improving as rugby players.

"From a professional point of view we're focusing on beating Ireland this week and we know it's going to be a tough encounter.

"Kurtley is fine, he's in good spirits and he's keen to get out there, train and be a part of the squad.”

Cooper, 26, also recently returned to the squad and he adds: "In terms of everything else I've been excited with the opportunity to grow under a new coach.

None of us are here to play politicians, or politics, we're all here with the same focus of improving as a rugby team, and improving as rugby players.

"Also, I'm just happy to be back in and around the squad, being able to contribute to the team.

"If I can contribute in any way, holding pads, being out on the field or giving advice, I'll continue to do that.”

And Cooper spoke highly of new coach Cheika: "The way he talks about the game, he's very passionate about being physical.

"Training is very intense, very physical, there's no time to take a breath. That's what this team must build on the back of.

"If we can continue to follow his guidance, we'll be a lot better for it. Mental edge is something he talks about a lot.

"Mental preparation, each individual making sure we cover everything in the week, leaving nothing to chance.

"So when we get into tight situations, we won't give opponents the opportunity to win the game."

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