Ireland back Jimmy O'Brien dreaming of making squad for Rugby World Cup in France to achieve 'big dream'

Ireland back Jimmy O’Brien has admitted he would achieve a “big dream” if he gets to play at the upcoming Rugby World Cup.

O’Brien is hoping to be included in Andy Farrell’s 33-man squad on Monday, with Ireland set to begin their campaign against Romania on September 9 in France.

The 26-year-old Leinster player made his Ireland debut last November in a 19-16 win against reigning world champions South Africa.

“I think it's a dream of any young lad growing up playing rugby in Ireland,” he said.

“To be honest, years ago, I'd never have thought I'd be this close to making it, so, yeah, it would be a big dream of mine.”

Since his debut O’Brien has added five more caps to his name, including impressive outings against Fiji and Australia.

O’Brien’s chance selection came about due to injuries to others, but Farrell was suitably impressed to include the Leinster back in his Six Nations squad.

After he helped the world’s number-one ranked side secure a Grand Slam, O’Brien was included in Ireland’s training squad ahead of the World Cup.

Versatility is one of O’Brien’s great strengths, having already represented his nation at full-back, wing and outside centre. However, he sees that as something that could help his bid for selection.

“Obviously, I've played a good few positions at this stage now and I think they [the coaching staff] trust me in a few,” O'Brien said.

“Hopefully it helps when they pick the squad but I'm not sure.

“I don't really mind at this stage [where he plays]. Wherever I can get on the pitch, I'll play it, there's no real kind of preference.

“I’m just trying to fit into the team. I'll just try to do what I do well for Leinster and in the previous games I've played for Ireland and hopefully that gets me picked.”

Unfortunately for O’Brien, a close friend could stand in his way.

The 26-year-old was not in the Ireland squad for the warm-up match victory against England on Saturday, with his Leinster team-mate Hugo Keenan preferred at full-back.

O’Brien now only has the final warm-up game against Samoa this weekend to persuade Farrell he deserves to make the tournament squad.

There are no hard feelings though, as O’Brien revealed the close relationship he shares with Keenan.

“Hugo's been unbelievable. He's one of my closest friends in rugby and outside of rugby we get on great,” O’Brien said of Keenan.

“He's helped me out massively and the two of us talk about the position and try and help each other out.

“It's important having someone [covering] in every position. The depth of the squad in every position, you need the next man up.”

As well as Romania, Ireland will face South Africa, Scotland and Tonga in Pool B.

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