Court has been forced to look on as Cian Healy and Mike Ross have got the nod at loosehead and tighthead respectively, while Dave Kilcoyne and Declan Fitzpatrick have been the bench options.

Court, 32, has 29 caps to his name but the last of those came against England in last year’s RBS 6 Nations at Twickenham where he was given a torrid time by the Red Rose’s front row.

Back then Court entered the fray at tighthead following an injury to Ross and England took full advantage of the Ulster prop’s inexperience in that position.

But after playing a key role in Ulster’s flying start to the season, Court is convinced he still has plenty to offer on the international stage.

“I was the only prop on the bench last year and I didn't have enough time under my belt as a tight-head,” said Court.

“I don’t want that game against England to be my last cap or my final memory of playing for Ireland.

“There are two props among the replacements now so guys can focus on their specialist positions.

“I would be playing loose-head this time where I've played most of my rugby and I should be more comfortable.”