Ireland’s Iain Henderson has revealed he is attempting to become a more versatile player in a bid to earn a regular starting jersey for his country.
A lock by trade, Henderson made three substitute appearances for his country at the 2013 RBS 6 Nations, having made his debut against South Africa last November.
And his good club form for Ulster in the PRO12, which led him to be named the province’s Young Player of the Year last season, has placed him in a strong position to feature heavily during the autumn internationals.
The 21-year-old was named in new coach Joe Schmidt’s first squad of 42 players, but knows he has plenty to do to force his way into his starting plans.
“I can play both at six and as a second row,” said Henderson. “I’m swapping in and out of both, but I’m young at the minute so it’s a matter of getting game-time.
“I’m happy to play either when I’m selected for either positions, even for Ulster. I’m keeping my options open.”
And Henderson, who picked up an arm injury during Ulster’s win over Treviso on Friday night, is sure Schmidt already knows plenty about what he capable of at the highest level.
“I’m sure he has got a fair idea about a lot of the players who will be in the Irish set-up in November,” he added. “I think he has a fair idea about what level the players are at.”
