Michael Lowry can be 'absolute nightmare' for Azzurri - Farrell

Michael Lowry’s size can work in his favour as opposed to being a disadvantage for Ireland, says head coach Andy Farrell.

The Ulster full-back has been given the nod for his first cap in Sunday's Guinness Six Nations match against Italy in Dublin (3pm).

Standing 5’ 7" and weighing in at 11st 10lbs, according to the official Irish Rugby profile, 23-year-old Lowry comes in for regular starter Hugo Keenan, who is being rested after 18 successive Test starts.

The Belfast man has been in the form of his life for Ulster, registering three tries in four Champions Cup games this season.

Asked if his diminutive stature would be an issue in international rugby, Farrell said: "No, it’s never been a problem.

"It’s actually a nightmare for somebody like me, if I was playing against him.

"I think his size is an added bonus for him. I think it makes him an absolute nightmare for people to handle.

"Since his first day at Ulster, he hasn’t grown, has he, since then but he’s certainly got braver, more dynamic, more game awareness, more game sense.

"He’s able to play the game in many different ways. He’s explosive, hits a line, is brave, so we’re hoping he can be himself on Sunday."

Former dual-code England international Farrell has taken his chance to mix up selection for the visit of the perennial wooden spoon recipients, making six changes to the side that fell to a 30-24 defeat to France in Paris.

The matchday squad features eight players with less than ten caps, with fit-again Johnny Sexton having to make do with a spot on the bench.

"We’ve always been about the squad and always thought about the different permutations that happen constantly during the eight weeks of a Six Nations," said Farrell, who also handed first championship starts to Dan