Butler primed for Munster back-row challenge

The 23-year-old crashed over in the 77th minute to complete his side's comeback at BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park and announce himself as the latest prodigious talent in the Munster pack.

With Butler facing a tough challenge to oust the incumbent trio of Peter O'Mahony, Tommy O'Donnell and CJ Stander, he is determined to seize his chance against Newport Gwent Dragons on Friday night.

And although Butler admits he is relishing the opportunity the international period allows, he is also hoping to soon follow in the footsteps of teammate Dave Foley, who won his first Ireland cap against Georgia.

"Back row is a very competitive sector in Munster," Butler told the Irish Examiner. "I think there are eight or nine of us in the squad. If you have one bad game, it puts you back a step.

"Obviously that try in Cardiff was a big boost and I was delighted to get it. In fairness, though, it was a team effort - we dogged out a win but that showed the character in the squad.

"It gives you encouragement to know that you are never too far away. Up to six months or so ago, I was probably at the same level as Dave.

"I think everyone who hasn't been in the squad for the bigger games looks at the international break as an opportunity.

"So this is the chance to put our hands up. You have to take that chance in a team like this so everyone is focused on the job now, nailing down the detail early in the week so we can go out there and play with aggression, the way we play best and get a good result in Newport."

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