Ireland believes the return of fullback Rob Kearney will help them counter the All Blacks’ kicking game on Saturday.
Kearney hurt his shoulder last month and has been sidelined ever since, but is back in training and ready to face the world champs.
Assistant coach Andy Farrell says: “Anyone would be happy to have Rob Kearney in the squad.
“The experience alone of what he has been through and obviously the experience of playing against New Zealand before, he’s key to any squad.
“They [the All Blacks] don’t just kick, they kick very accurately and kick on the front foot.
“Their ability to get in the air and win the space for the ball is right up there, so, Rob, I think we all know, he’s outstanding in that area.”