O'Connor backs depleted Leinster to shine

Ireland coach Joe Schmidt has named 13 Leinster players in his match-day 23 that will take on France in Dublin this weekend.

That means O'Connor's team to face Newport Gwent Dragons at the RDS Arena on Sunday will look very different to the one that beat Cardiff Blues 22-13 in their last GUINNESS PRO12 game a month ago.

Leinster currently sit fourth in the table but with Ulster breathing down their necks for the final play-off spot, they can't afford any slip-ups.

And while O'Connor knows it won't be easy to pick up the victory against the Dragons, he has backed his depleted troops to do the province proud.

"It's a little bit difficult but then again it's an opportunity for the other guys in the group to get some competitive rugby, which is really positive," he said.

"Those guys have been working very, very hard and doing a great job - they're very excited to get an opportunity to play with the senior team in the GUINNESS PRO12.

"The Dragons will have plenty of continuity but, at home in RDS, the guys are very excited about putting in a performance on Sunday.

"The tough part is when you've got that next tier of guys who are injured which we had in November - that was a challenge.

"It's not a new dynamic and it doesn't take away the frustration, it's something that you get accustomed to."

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