Jordan 'excited' with McKenzie at 10 for All Blacks

Will Jordan says he is "excited" to see what Damian McKenzie can do when he returns to the starting line-up for New Zealand against Ireland.

He comes in as one of two enforced changes, replacing Beauden Barrett at fly-half, while hooker Asafo Aumua comes in for Codie Taylor, with the duo injured in their dramatic late win over England last weekend.

And Jordan is looking forward to seeing him back in the number 10 jersey when they walk out in Dublin.

"It's exciting. Damian is someone who loves to play the game with an attacking mindset and flair," said Jordan.

"I've had a couple of games with him at ten and me out the back, and I've enjoyed the combination we've had.

"I know he'll be excited to take this opportunity. He's had some great moments for us in the black jersey this year, and I'm sure he'll go out and nail it on Friday."

We meet again Kick off Friday 8:10pm (GMT) | Saturday 9:10am (NZT) pic.twitter.com/tTQbp15tbN

— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) November 4, 2024

It is the first meeting between the two sides since the All Blacks clinched a 28-24 victory over Ireland in the 2023 World Cup quarter-finals, ending the latter's hopes of winning a second consecutive tournament.

They will be without the tighthead prop due to a hamstring injury on Friday, but Ronan Kelleher has won his fitness race to deputise for the injured Dan Sheehan.

Ireland are targeting a 20th straight win at the Aviva Stadium, but head coach Andy Farrell is expecting a tight affair.

"Irish rugby is in a good place and I think everyone knows New Zealand are always the team to beat," he said.

"I expect it to be as good as ever, if not better."