The British & Irish Lions : Murray not swayed by Lions plaudits

With the 2009 series now done and dusted, we take a look back at the impact of skipper Paul O'Connell through the eyes of coaches, team-mates and the man himself.

One of the heroes of the 1997 tour to South Africa believes his countrymen have done themselves plenty of favours on the current tour of the Republic.

Scotland may have suffered defeats to both New Zealand and South Africa during last month's autumn Tests but Euan Murray's performances have raised his own standing in the world game.

The Northampton Saints tight-head received rave reviews from pundits and coaches during November, leading many to suggest he will be selected as a Lion in 2009.

However, although the 28-year-old former Glasgow prop would love to represent Britain and Ireland in South Africa next summer, Murray isn't paying any attention to his plaudits.

"I can't listen to that stuff," said Murray, who joined Northampton after the 2007 World Cup.

"I would love to go, any player would. But it takes hard work and commitment. You also need to stay injury-free for the whole season.

"As soon as I start thinking that the job is done, I'm beaten."

Having started all three of his country's November internationals against the All Blacks, Springboks and Canada, Murray was back in club action at the weekend, playing 71 minutes of Northampton's defeat to Gloucester at Kingsholm on Saturday afternoon.

The British & Irish Lions

Tour to South Africa 2009

The British & Irish Lions

Tour to South Africa 2009