Returning Fitzgerald tipped to shine for Ireland

Fitzgerald has shone recently at outside centre for Leinster in the GUINNESS PRO12 but Schmidt regards him as a left-wing option for his country.

The 27-year-old has replaced Munster's Simon Zebo in the side for Saturday afternoon's match up in Edinburgh for what is his first start since Ireland's game against France in 2011.

Injuries have hindered Fitzgerald's chances on the international scene since then but Schmidt believes his resilience marks him out as one to watch for Ireland's latest game.

"He will bring a real freshness, he's been champing at the bit for a while," said Schmidt.

"He's a natural left footer so coming in on the left wing it means that we have a left-footed kicking option and the ability to play down that left-hand touch a little bit.

"It has been a very long road back for Luke but he has an exuberance and positivity that make it difficult to keep (him) down for long periods.

"Obviously injury forced him away for long periods, but he's very keen to make it back. That resilience is something we'll need."

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