Murphy will make his first international appearance at Lansdowne Road since breaking his leg against Scotland last September, an injury which kept him out of the World Cup.

He was expected to be one of the stars of the tournament in Australia but instead embarked on a lengthy rehabilitation program which will be completed against the Azzurri.

Geordan has played in three matches for Leicester since his comeback, said OSullivan.

I think thats enough game time and from what Ive seen of him in training he looks ready.

Hes had a long lay-off but hes a very good footballer. It was a difficult decision but only because it was a tough call to leave out Tyrone Howe, not because of any fitness doubt over Geordan. Tyrone has played well.

We know Geordan and he knows himself, so his fitness was never an issue. Hes good to go. He has made a fantastic recovery. To only be out for six months given the severity of the injury is fantastic.

Murphy is a slippery customer with a superb eye for a gap and plenty of gas, increasing the attacking options of an Irish back line which already includes the prodigiously talented Brian ODriscoll and in-form Gordon DArcy.

Geordan had a superb season last year and was set for a fantastic World Cup but unfortunately the injury ruled him out. Hes back now though and at the top of his game, added OSullivan

Geordan adds another dimension to the team. Hes a very good attacking player and thats what I expect to see from him against Italy. Im very happy to have him on board again.

The recall of Murphy is the only change to the starting line-up which defeated England 19-13 victory at Twickenham last time out.