The weekends Celtic League program means OSullivans plans could still be hit by injury but currently only back rows Simon Easterby and Anthony Foley are concerns.

Simon has a hamstring problem but hell be playing this weekend and well see how he gets on. Anthony hasnt trained this week because of a knock and hell also be closely monitored this weekend, said OSullivan.

Opensides Johnny OConnor and Denis Leamy are the only forwards who have yet to make their Six Nations debuts while Irelands well of talent in the three-quarters leaves OSullivan with a big call to make.

Injury has forced the coachs hand over the past two two years but the full compliment of backs available ensures the axe must fall over one of the heroes of Irelands recent emergence as genuine championship contenders.

Leinsters Girvan Dempsey would appear to be the most likely victim with Geordan Murphy switching to full-back, Shane Horgan reverting to the wing and last years player of the tournament Gordon DArcy returning at centre.

OSullivan said: It will be tough to leave one of the guys out. I have a pretty close idea of who I want to be in the backline but I wont be making any final decisions until Im sure everyone is ready to go.

Its the most difficult part of the job telling a player hes no longer in the team. Its horrendous leaving someone out of the team, especially if they havent done anything wrong.

Its important to handle the situation properly. You have to be upfront, direct with people and tell them why youre doing it. You have to explain the logic - they never agree with you but they respect it if youve been straight with them.

You make these calls on what you believe is right and no matter what you do other people will think youre wrong.