Michael Cheika's thoughts on Leinster v Dragons

INJURY UPDATE: "Shane Horgan is back this week which is good news, but (Gordon) D'Arcy's still missing.

"Leo Cullen had a shoulder operation last week and he will be out for the next few months. It's a massive blow for him because he has been so consistent for us this season and had put himself right up there for (Irish) selection in what is one of the most competitive areas for selection."

ON THE CHALLENGES AHEAD: "I went down to see the Dragons against the Ospreys last weekend and we understand the importance of this week's game. We're concentrating on our opponents and we will be doing our best to get the right result.

"We have been voted the Best Supported team in the Magners League again this year and we would love to beat the Dragons for them (supporters) on Saturday. But first things first, our focus is on the game and not the occasion.

"I feel that we're in far better shape this year. We have definitely managed the players differently, in that we might have taken them out of training at particular times.

"Our mental and physical conditioning, player preparation etc things like that have improved and though we've had some disappointment in recent years, if I didn't learn from those experiences then they would have been wasted.

"We know that our consistent performances all year have gotten us this far."

ON KEITH GLEESON'S RETIREMENT: "There's no turning back for Keith and I'm sure that Saturday will be a massive game for him, particularly given how well he has played.

"We want him to finish on the right note as well, because it's important that when players leave (that) they do so with good memories. He has played some awesome games for us and I actually think that he has gotten better in terms of his defence, his ball play and his distribution."

ON THE IRELAND COACHING VACANCY: "I think that he (Declan Kidney) should get it. He's Irish, he has gotten his team to the pinnacle of the game in Europe and they have been consistent performers in the Magners League.

"He's breeding Irish players and I've got a good rapport with Declan. If/when he does get it I'm sure that he will do a good job. I will do anything I can to get my players playing for their country."