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Kieran Marmion says Ireland's clash with Argentina was the ideal preparation ahead of the biggest task in world rugby - taking on the All Blacks.
The Connacht scrum-half scored his fourth try in 23 internationals in last weekend's win, staking his claim for a place in the starting XV to face New Zealand on Saturday.
"Absolutely. That's what I want to do", Marmion said on Saturday about his selection prospects. "After tonight hopefully I've put my hand up. That's up for Joe and the coaches to decide. All I can do is get ready for that game and if I'm starting great, but I'll just train as hard as I can."
Marmion confirmed he's feeling no ill-effects of the ankle injury he suffered in the Argentina game and is training as normal with the rest of the squad.
Joining Kieran, Bundee Aki, Finlay Bealham and Quinn Roux for the week is centre Tom Farrell who has linked up with the Ireland squad for the first time after a string of impressive performances in the Connacht green.
You can read the full interview with Kieran with Irish Rugby HERE.
