Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt says the fact that Luke Fitzgerald is left footed helped him win a place in the side to face Scotland.

The Leinster back is included in place of Simon Zebo on the left flank for this weekend's final Six Nations clash of 2015.

"It's just about keeping that balance and making sure he's comfortable coming into the side. He's a natural left footer obviously, so to be on the left wing, it maintains that left-footed kicking option that we have and the ability to play down that left hand touch a little bit," said Schmidt.

Meanwhile, Fitzgerald also highlighted his footwork as a key asset that he will hope to use now that he is selected.