Ireland coach Declan Kidney has insisted that he has full belief in Paddy Jackson's ability ahead of his country's Six Nations match against Scotland at the weekend.
The 21-year-old has been preferred in the starting lineup for the clash against the Scots ahead of the more experienced Ronan O'Gara.
"Paddy's inclusion was a challenge given that somebody of the stature of Ronan O'Gara was available," said Kidney.
"After taking everything into account, I felt Paddy deserved a go. Paddy has the skills and has shown he has the temperament and ability to make decisions."
O'Gara has made 127 appearances for the Greens.
