That is how it should be – Andy Farrell insists Lions places still up for grabs

Andy Farrell has told his British Irish and Lions stars ahead of Friday’s clash with Argentina that selection for the Test series is wide open.

Maro Itoje captains the Lions for the first time and is joined in the starting XV by Marcus Smith, who has been picked at full-back behind an all-England half-back partnership of Alex Mitchell and Fin Smith.

Ireland prop Tadhg Furlong is given the opportunity to prove his fitness after being named on the bench for the Aviva Stadium showdown having been sidelined since early May because of a calf strain.

As many as 14 players could make their Lions debuts before the squad departs for Australia on Saturday and Farrell has demanded they make an immediate impact if they want a shot at facing the Wallabies.

“I did an exercise a couple of weeks ago, and I’ve done it about five times since, of choosing what the Test side could be,” the head coach said.

“You actually can’t even go there because there’s such good competition and that’s how it should be.

“The exciting thing about Friday night is these guys get to show the team-mates who are sat in the stand what they’re all about.

Our team to face Argentina in Dublin!