'I think everyone was expecting Finn to play' - Scotland's Russell decision won't change Irish approach

Andy Farrell says he's slightly surprised that Scotland have dropped Finn Russell for this Saturday's Guinness Six Nations finale at the Aviva Stadium.

The Racing 92 out-half will be among the replacements for the Triple Crown decider, with Edinburgh's Blair Kinghorn given the number 10 shirt.

It will be just a first Six Nations start for Kinghorn, who wasn't even named in Scotland's matchday squad for last week's win against Italy.

The Ireland head coach says the out-half swap won't alter his team's approach, although he admitted there was an element of surprise to the Scottish lineup.

"Surprised? Yes and no," he said.

"I mean, I think everyone was expecting Finn to play, he's a great player, but I watched the Connacht game [v Edinburgh] and Blair was the best player on the pitch by a country mile."

Farrell added that he is well-versed in the skillset of the 25-year-old [pictured below].

"We know him well, we know his strengths, he’s very dangerous with the ball in hand.

"He takes the ball on, is very dangerous counter-attack wise, good passing game, good kicking game as well, and it’s a big game for him obviously.

"Gregor’s had a look at him and picked on form because his last game for Edinburgh was outstanding."

It's 12 years since Scotland last won in Dublin, while Ireland have won 10 of their last 11 meetings, the 2017 defeat in Edinburgh the only blemish since 2013.

However, while Scotland have underwhelmed in this campaign, they have proven themselves capable of big one-off performances, notably denying France the title in the final game last season.

"They are a good side," Farrell added.

"We've had some really tough tussles with them of late. You go back before the last couple of campaigns in the Six Nations. I think they’ve