Rugby Union : Tweed finds age no barrier for Ireland

Davy Tweed, the Ballymena lock who was 36 last month, has received an unexpected call-up to Ireland's national squad for a week-long pre-Five Nations' Championship training session in the United States. However, there is no place for former All Black full-back John Gallagher in the 30-strong squad for a trip that culminates in a match against the US on 6 January.

"We need a little more time to watch John, but his omission does not mean that he will not be considered in future," said Pat Whelan, Ireland's team manager. "Davy has been playing very well and he has been selected on form."

Tweed became the oldest man to play for Ireland when he came into the team for the injured Paddy Johns against France in Dublin last season. He also played in the side which defeated Wales in Cardiff and was a member of Ireland's World Cup squad.

Squad, Sporting Digest, page 22