It is hoped that further signs of emerging resources at youth level will be in evidence this weekend.

The Irish under-21s challenge France for the Celtic Cup in the four-nations tournament in Cork while the under-18s and under-16s tune up in the Home Countries gathering in Cardiff with the inaugural European championships in Belfast and Antwerp at Easter much in view.

While only six members of Ireland's European B title-winning squad in Padua remain in service, under-21 coach George Blackwood can now accommodate a surfeit of up-and-coming players. Leinster provide as many as 11 representatives with Colm Brady getting a late call-up in place of Gary McKee.

Today's opening game against Wales, however, will be a testing assignment in finding fresh rhythm. It will be important to wipe out the memory of a 4-3 defeat by the Welsh last August which was the only blemish in Italy. No doubt, Scotland will be seeking a revival of fortunes while France, who have won the Celtic Cup for the past two years, will want to avenge the 4-0 defeat inflicted by Ireland in the European final.

Munster, the under-18 champions, provide the bulk of an Irish side which is counting particularly on fitness and a sturdy defence in Cardiff but once again it may be difficult to match England's skills in the quest for honours. The under-16s, though, might have a surprise in store.