SIX NATIONS: Coach Declan Kidney has warned Ireland to expect a significant step up in class when their RBS 6 Nations campaign opens against France next month.

Ireland produced mixed performance during the autumn international, beating Argentina for a crucial win in terms of world rankings but then suffered a demoralising defeat by the All Blacks.

Yesterday Kidney named a 39-man squad, including centre Gordon D'Arcy, for the Six Nations with the players scheduled to convene on Monday for their first week of training.

Kidney said: "Our games in November were mission accomplished from a ranking point of view, because it meant we were among the second seeds for the World Cup draw.

"The win against Argentina, although not the prettiest game anybody may have seen, was vitally important.

"The France game (on February 7th) is another step above that, because they can bring so much to their game and are incredibly dangerous in this tournament.

"The players' focus for the first week of training will be to set the foundations for the tournament.

"After that, the only focus we will have will be on our opening game against France."

D'Arcy features in an Ireland squad for the first time since breaking his arm in last season's Six Nations.

Further midfield cover is provided by uncapped Ulster centre Darren Cave, who has impressed on provincial duty this season.

Seven uncapped players - Cave, Cian Healy, Ryan Caldwell, Ian Dowling, Jonathan Sexton, Tom Court and Mike Ross - have been included.

Leo Cullen, Tony Buckley, Neil Best and Roger Wilson were not considered for selection because of injury or suspension.