British and Irish Lions

The All Blacks are the only side Ireland have never beaten but they will be targetting a landmark victory when the Kiwis visit the Aviva Stadium on Saturday

To date in the Autumn Series Ireland went down to a narrow 23-21 defeat to the Lions' last opponents, South Africa. They then recorded a unconvincing 20-10 victory over Samoa.

But Fitzgerald insists Ireland are still confident ahead of taking on the Tri-Nations champions.

"I think everyone is confident and I'm confident that whatever team takes the field on Saturday will be able to do a good job for us," said Fitzgerald.

"Personally I feel very confident. Within the squad I don't think there is any sign of anyone lacking in confidence.

"I think everyone is very confident. Maybe the spectacle hasn't been there in some of the games, but I don't think either team have played well in the two games. We know there are areas where we need to improve but I think we are going in the right direction.

"I don't want to give an excuse for it but I think the conditions don't really suit that expansive rugby. Everyone is itching to get their hands on the ball constantly. I think it's just a matter of doing it at the right times.

"I've only ever played New Zealand once. I'm not bringing too much baggage myself, I don't really think about the record that much. I don't think it will have much of an effect on the team."

Lions skipper Sam Warburton says the lessons he and his Welsh colleagues learnt in Australia last summer will stand them in good stead for their return visit with Britain and Ireland's elite next month.

Tom Youngs has enjoyed a remarkable rise to the top of the British & Irish game but he won't be resting on his laurels ahead of his first Lions adventure.

Check out the video from the day the HSBC Cubs met The British & Irish Lions at the Vale of Glamorgan in a day they will remember for the rest of their lives.