Darren Cave says Cormac Izuchukwu could excel in international rugby after the uncapped Ulster forward was included in the Ireland squad for the four-match autumn series.
Andy Farrell named a 35-strong group for the November games in Dublin against New Zealand, Argentina, Fiji and Australia.
The versatile Izuchukwu, who can play in the second and back rows, has shot to prominence this year.
The 24-year-old did not get game-time in Ireland’s summer tour in South Africa but played for Emerging Ireland earlier this month.
“What’s good about the November series is you have four games and there’s opportunity to rotate,” said former Ireland and Ulster centre Cave.
“I fully expect Cormac to get capped and he has the profile of a player that could definitely excel in international rugby.”
Izuchukwu is one of only two uncapped players in the squad – Sam Prendergast is the other – with Caelan Doris being named captain for the series.
There are seven Ulster players, including hooker Rob Herring who has been sidelined so far this season with a calf injury.
Hooker is a problem position for coach Farrell – first-choice Dan Sheehan is injured and out of the series while Ronan Kelleher is expected to miss at least the opener against the All Blacks on 8 November.
“Hooker was obviously an interesting one – it’s no real surprise to see Rob Herring included, particularly given the first game is against New Zealand,” said Cave.
“I don’t think there was ever going to be many surprises in the squad given the success Ireland have had over the past months and years.”
