Lam delighted with Connacht's Ireland contingent

This time last year Robbie Henshaw was Connacht's sole representative for the autumn series but this time around Joe Schmidt has added Darragh Leader, Rodney Ah You, Nathan White and Kieran Marmion.

Connacht have won four of their first six games to sit fifth in the GUINNESS PRO12 and Lam insists all signs are good for the future of the province.

"One of the really pleasing aspects for everyone at Connacht is the inclusion of young Darragh, who is following in the footsteps of local guys like Eric Elwood," said Lam.

"From Galway, he has played all his rugby at grassroots level here, gone on to play for his province and now could play for Ireland. This is part of the vision of Connacht Rugby.

"It's fantastic to have five of our Connacht men named in the squad. Their inclusion is thoroughly deserved and we're all very proud of them.

"It is a huge testament to the players themselves, their team-mates, the backroom staff and what we're all trying to do here at Connacht.

"Credit has to go to the Ireland coaches, who have continued to make a big effort in coming out to the Sportsground and to the other provinces to meet the players and highlight to them what they are looking for in terms of the international team.

"This has been very beneficial in terms of building relationships and giving clarity to the players."

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