Never say never.

Ireland have admitted that Conor Murray could be fit in time for their hugely anticipated clash with world champions New Zealand at the Aviva Stadium next month.

The Munster scrumhalf hasn’t played a game yet this season as he continues to recover from a neck problem. Murray last played for Ireland back in June against Australia, and has been training with the squad this week in Carton House.

All Blacks boss Steven Hansen this week said Ireland could be pulling an “Irish trick” in terms of Murray’s fitness, while former Munster and Ireland outhalf Ronan O’Gara said he thinks there’s a chance Murray will play.

And now Ireland coach Simon Easterby has admitted Murray could be back in time.

“No, he hasn’t been ruled out,” said Easterby.

“A little bit like some of the others, he’s been on a longer-term injury list but he’s in camp this week. He’s been in Carton House and we’ll probably assess him as we go through the series.”

Easterby went on to say the Argentina game will likely come too soon for Murray, but refused to rule him out.

“Yeah, I’d say more than likely [Argentina will be too soon] but without being there in Dublin now and knowing what he’s going through and what he’s reacting like, we’ll obviously make that call and we’ll get some information on him and his status probably later in the week with a view to preparing for next week.”