Easterby believes Reddan is ready

Ireland have pitched Reddan, who will be winning his fourth cap, into the biggest match of his career with out-of-form veteran Peter Stringer making way.

"Eoin Reddan deserves his chance because he has been playing well for Wasps," said Easterby. "France haven't seen as much of Eoin as they have of Peter and that may work in our favour."

The match is do or die for both teams - defeat would send France crashing to a humiliating group exit while Ireland, who finish the pool against Argentina, believe it is their pivotal contest.

With the stakes so high, Ireland coach Eddie O'Sullivan has taken a gamble on 26-year-old Reddan - and Easterby believes it could prove a masterstroke.

"There's no desperation in the team selection," said the Ireland blindside.

"He will add a different dimension to what Peter brings. He has played for Ireland before so I don't think it's a risk.

"It's not an issue. It will put doubt in the French minds over what he will bring to the game."

A slow start from the pack has marred Ireland's opening two games against Namibia and Georgia and a vast improvement will be needed if they are to compete with the French forwards.

"We know we must perform better than we have been, but we also know we're capable of doing exactly that," Easterby said. "It's our biggest Test match for a long time and we don't need any extra motivation."