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22nd November 2013
11:38am GMT

Getting to grips with Richie McCaw in 2008
Fitzgerald has faced the All Blacks twice previously, a 22-3 defeat in Croke Park five years ago and 20 point defeat in the Aviva three years ago, and concedes the men in black are simply more clinical than any other side in the world.
“What I really noticed about them was when they got opportunities or when we made mistakes, they really punished us. Their basics are really superb. I know that is always said about them, but it really is true”.
“Their handling skills are just so good, that any mistake is ruthlessly exposed.”
On occasions Ireland have given the All Blacks some good matches, but have always fallen that little bit short as the men from New Zealand seem to have the knack of wearing down the opposition.
“In 2010 we were only six points down at half time and were doing pretty well. I remember I tore my medial ligaments in that match, but we scored the first try and were competing well. But we couldn’t hold on to the ball, and when they bring you through the phases, there is no better team in the world.”
Obviously disappointed not have featured in the match-day squad against the Wallabies the last time out, it has been a frustrating time for Fitzgerald since his brilliant performances for the Lions on the 2009 tour to South Africa. He has started just 10 games for Ireland since then, but is happy with his current form for Leinster this season
“I’m really happy with my form so far for Leinster. Obviously I was disappointed with not being involved in the two Heineken Cup games, but I think management was being careful with me and I understand that, and it is a very competitive squad.”
“For me it is all about staying fit. If I do that then I think it is all there for me and I have confidence in my ability.”
Eyes fixed on the number 13 jersey
And with the news that you-know-who will be retiring at the end of the season, it is a chance for the 26 year-old to really stake a claim for his favoured position in the number 13 jersey.
“Looking ahead to my future, this is the position I am looking at. Brian will be going at the end of the season and the number 13 jersey is what I will be concentrating on.”
Close to switching the blue for red
While admitting that it was a blow to some degree when Schmidt decided to take the Irish post at a time when he was changing his game and developing certain aspects of his game, he has been more than impressed by Matt O’Connor, who is helping to take his game onto a new level.
“Mattie has been a backs coach which is great for me personally. I spoke to a close friend of mine Niall Morris who worked with him at Leicester who spoke very highly regarding his coaching and has been involved with some top names at Leicester.
“Since he came in I have really enjoyed training. His outlook on the game is a little different to Joe, but my game is definitely reaping the benefits. In terms of my playmaking, he’ll be a great coach for me. It’s part of my game I’m trying to work on at just the right time in my career.”
All Irish fans will be hoping that he continues to have a run free from injury and has the platform to showcase the skills that made him one of the most feared players in Northern Hemisphere rugby just a few short years ago.Explore more on these topics:

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