Casey was out of the Ireland fray for almost eight years (Getty)

London Irish captain Bob Casey is excited to be leading Ireland A in this year's Churchill Cup.

Casey, 28, played for Ireland against the Barbarians on Tuesday but missed out on the tour down under.

The second-row, who played 30 times for the Exiles this season, decided to tour this summer despite the long season.

He told BBC Radio Berkshire: "If your country comes calling, you go - especially with all the summers I've had off in the past few years."

Casey said his experience of being back in Ireland squads has shown him the depth of talent in Irish rugby.

Ireland have some of the best second rows in the world, but I've just got to keep believing and keep working hard for my club and when I get a chance I have to take it London Irish captain Bob Casey

"I loved every minute of it. I loved the week, the atmosphere in the camp was brilliant, we worked really hard and we enjoyed it and I think it showed.

"There is no shortage of talent and it shows that Irish rugby is in a very strong position."

Casey and the rest of the Ireland A squad meet up next Wednesday for the Churchill Cup campaign in Canada and the United States.

He said that leading the A team lessened the disappointment of missing out on the senior tour.

"I'm just delighted to go and to lead my country.

"Ireland have some of the best second rows in the world, but I've just got to keep believing and keep working hard for my club and when I get a chance I have to take it."