Ireland head coach Billy Walsh believes that France will pose a formidable challenge for Ireland in to- night’s Elite international at the National Stadium.

Two-time Olympic medallist Paddy Barnes and London 2012 Olympians Darren O’Neill and Adam Nolan have been named in an Irish squad stacked with ex and current Elite champions.

Ireland and France have been involved in close indi- vidual battles over the past few seasons the Ireland coach reckons it’s going to be equally tight tonight.

“The squad is ready to roll and looking forward to this meeting with a very formidable looking French team.

“We know them and we know how they train. The will bring everything to the table and we will have to match that with our A games.

“France are like ourselves in that they are building up toward Rio.They will be coming here to win so our guys will have to be at their best,” said Walsh.