British and Irish Lions: Owen Farrell will deliver boost – Tadhg Beirne

Owen Farrell’s arrival on tour will lift the whole British and Irish Lions squad, says flanker Tadhg Beirne.

Farrell, 33, has been called up to replace the injured Elliot Daly, but lacks form and match fitness after an injury-interrupted season at French side Racing 92.

The decision by head coach Andy Farrell, Owen’s father, to overlook the likes of Scotland’s Tom Jordan and Darcy Graham, has attracted criticism.

But Beirne, who will captain the Lions in their match against the New South Wales Waratahs on Saturday, says Farrell’s leadership and experience of three previous tours will strengthen the tourists ahead of the Test series against Australia.

“He’s only going to bring some serious quality to the squad, so we’re looking forward to inviting him in here and getting to hang out with him,” said Beirne.

“Any type of leadership is only going to enhance the squad. Playing with him four years ago, I’ve seen all the leadership qualities that he brings, the quality of his talent as well. It’s going to do nothing but boost the squad, for sure.”

Daly, along with captain Maro Itoje and prop Tadhg Furlong, was one of three players in the initial squad to have played on two previous tours.