Tommy O'Brien eager to stake his claim in Ireland squad

Leinster’s versatile back Tommy O’Brien is on a mission to ensure his call-up to the Ireland summer tour squad isn’t a one-off.

Named among 12 uncapped players ahead of matches against Georgia and Portugal, O’Brien says he's determined to make this opportunity count—not just for a debut cap, but to secure a longer-term place in the national setup.

O’Brien joins the squad fresh off Leinster’s victorious URC campaign and says he’s relishing the chance to test himself at the international level.

“It was nice to have that pep in your step coming in off the back of winning a trophy,” he said, speaking about joining Ireland camp.

But he’s under no illusions about the level of competition.

“There’s definitely not much of a bedding-in period. It’s straight into it. You’re trying to pick things up as quickly as possible and put your best foot forward.”

Making his ambitions clear, O’Brien said he doesn’t just want to make up the numbers.

“I want to try and stake a claim and make myself a mainstay in this squad,” he said. “I definitely don’t want to be a one-cap wonder.”

With several senior players including James Lowe and Mack Hansen away with the Lions, the door is open for new faces to step up—and O’Brien knows the importance of seizing the moment.

After struggling with hamstring issues earlier in the season, O’Brien has found consistency in recent months, clocking 12 starts in the latter part of Leinster’s campaign.

“I’ve loved my rugby the last few months,” he said.

“It’s something I haven’t really had in my career. To get a good string of games and put good performances together, it’s given me confidence.”

That form, he hopes, will translate into international selection.

Comfortable on the wing or in the centre, O’Brien said he's ready to play wherever needed.

“I’m dying to play a game for Ireland, so wherever they play me, I’ll happily play.”