Jordan Larmour says enjoying his rugby helped him get back into shape

Since his appearance in 2017, Jordan Larmour has always kept rugby fans in suspense, whether in the blue of Leinster or in the green jersey of Ireland.

From his incredible pace and footwork to his ability to score in any situation, a fit and performing Larmour is always good news for the province and country.

After much hype at the start of his career, injuries and a drop in form from 2021 onwards led to some difficult seasons, which saw him miss Ireland, and some big moments for Leinster.

However, in 2024, the Leinster winger found his roots and forced his way back into the Irish set-up, where he started his first game in three seasons as Ireland retained their Six Nations crown.

Speaking ahead of Leinster’s first home game of the season against the Dragons on Friday, Larmour said it was vital to enjoy his rugby again.

“I don’t think I can attribute it to just one thing. I’m always striving to improve and be the best version of myself.

“It’s about training and training hard, meaning in the gym, it’s about doing everything you can to give yourself the best opportunity.

“Last season I got a little bit fit again, I got my confidence back, I really enjoyed playing rugby. I hope to feel the same this year.”

Larmour got off to a good start as Leinster kicked off the season with a bonus point win in Edinburgh, with the 27-year-old among the try scorers.

This month marked one year since the Rugby World Cup, which marked the start of a long season for many Irish players.

For Larmour, missing out on this team was a huge disappointment and served as motivation to return to form.

“Not making the World Cup squad was a huge disappointment. I just set my sights on getting back into the Irish team, put my head down and kept working hard and to see areas in which I can improve.

“At the end of last season, I was really enjoying it overall. I was back with a smile on my face, and that makes it a little easier.”

With James Lowe, Jimmy O’Brien and Hugo Keenan all set to return for Leinster, combined with Mack Hansen and Calvin Nash to compete for Ireland, there is stiff competition across the board.

For Larmour, he appreciates the depth of the squad and says it is what Leinster need if they are to end the hunt for their first trophy since 2021.

“The competition we have here at Leinster is very high, everyone wants to put their hand up and be selected.

“I think you need that, especially if you want to win trophies, you need to need a team that trains hard, works hard for each other, and a team that can just get involved .

“You saw this weekend that everyone was working hard for each other and putting in the work. It probably wasn’t the prettiest rugby we’ve played, but it’s just what we need in a team.