Hugo Keenan understands the benefits of competition for places

Hugo Keenan is relishing rivalry from “electric” Michael Lowry as he bids to regain Ireland’s full-back role for Saturday’s tantalising Guinness Six Nations showdown with England.

Keenan’s run of 18 consecutive starts for his country was broken in round three of the tournament when head coach Andy Farrell opted to hand a Test debut to in-form Ulster player Lowry.

The international newcomer seized his opportunity, lighting up Dublin with an exceptional, two-dry display in the 57-6 win over Italy.

Leinster player Keenan is expected to take back the number 15 jersey at Twickenham but has welcomed the increased competition.

He said: “Mikey went great, didn’t he? He’s electric and he got to show that and it’s great for him.

“He’s such a good guy, such a gent and he’s been playing great rugby for Ulster so in fairness to him he deserved his shot and he took it.

“He got his two tries and I suppose you saw with all the smiles on the faces of the lads how much it meant to the whole team.

We're all champing at the bit; all of us trying to put our hands up and take that jersey, so it's definitely healthy and it's great to have.- Hugo Keenan

“It was a great to get another lad another debut and it also adds to the depth in the squad. If you look at any position, there’s always going to be competition and it’s a healthy thing to have.

“There’s six or seven back three (players) in here and we’re all champing at the bit; all of us trying to put our hands up and take that jersey, so it’s definitely healthy and it’s great to have.”

Ireland and England are playing catch-up to Grand Slam-chasing France in the battle for championship glory.

A capacity crowd of around 82,000 is expected for this weekend’s clash in London, with the losers set