John Cooney on bench for Ireland’s opening Six Nations clash with Scotland in Dublin

The choice between the experience of Murray and the fine form of Cooney was the biggest call facing new boss Farrell ahead of his first match in charge.

Munster player Murray, who has won 78 caps, has come under serious pressure for the role having previously been a guaranteed name on the teamsheet.

For now, the 30-year-old retains the backing of his new coach, with Ulster’s Cooney named among the replacements for Saturday’s match in Dublin and Luke McGrath unable to break into the 23. Farrell has also included uncapped Leinster duo Caelan Doris and Ronan Kelleher in his first match squad.

“We’ve got a very competitive squad and the lads have been in great form so it’s always going to be difficult,” he told the Irish Rugby Football Union website. “You’ve got to make a decision and we’ve got a hell of a team going into Scotland. We’ve been pretty open with the clean slate as far as selection is concerned and we wanted to see how people came into camp and obviously we’ve been watching from afar as far as form is concerned.”

Speaking specifically about the battle for scrum-half, Farrell continued: “It’s unbelievably tough because Luke McGrath misses out and he’s been playing really, really well. Conor’s been great in and around the group and his training. His calmness has been great for the group and he’s in good form as well, he’s raring to go.

“John, everyone knows what type of form he is in. He’s had a few protocols this week as far as his HIA (head injury assessment) is concerned but he’s got a couple of sessions under his belt and he’s ready to go as well. They’re in a great place, all three of them, and we’d be happy with all three of them being in the squad but unfortunately, somebody has got to miss out.”