AUSTRALIA'S International Rules side may be crammed with exciting, young talent but Adelaide midfielder Scott Thompson didn't hesitate to single out David Rodan as one to watch during Friday night's First Test against Ireland.

Rodan put in an eye-catching performance during Monday night's practice match and stood out with the round ball again at Wednesday's light skills session.

And while the 172cm Rodan is looking forward to playing against some shorter opponents, Thompson was certain his new teammate was an ideal recruit for the hybrid game.

"There are a lot of blokes that are good," he said.

"But David Rodan, you've seen him play at AFL level, he's built low to the ground and the way he moves is unbelievable. So he's getting aware of what he can do."

Rodan, delisted by Richmond at the end of 2006, has enjoyed a career renaissance at Port Adelaide and said he was grateful for the chance to now represent Australia.

The 25-year-old is also excited by the opportunity his young teammates have in front of a national audience.

"A lot of people are going to be watching and a lot of boys want to show that they can play, especially at this level," Rodan said.

"We've got a very young crew. They're very eager to represent their country and pretty passionate about this week and next week, so hopefully we do well."

Rodan's Port Adelaide teammate Shaun Burgoyne said the side was not getting over-confident ahead of their opening clash with the Irish, but acknowledged their preparation had been extensive.

The Power star also noted the natural talent available to coach Mick Malthouse, particularly the "speed and excitement" of the side's indigenous players.

"I can't pinpoint one, but it's just a great thing to be able to play with these players," Burgoyne said.

"You want to play with the best players in the comp, and the better the players you play with, it's going to bring that out in yourself."

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The 2008 Toyota International Rules Series: Australia v Ireland

First Test – Subiaco Oval, Perth, Friday October 24
Second Test – MCG, Melbourne, Friday October 31

Tickets on sale now at ticketmaster.com.au, by calling 1300 136 122 or at a Ticketmaster outlet.

For full coverage of the 2008 series, click here.
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