Australia coach Joe Schmidt is considering recalls for centre Len Ikitau and fly-half James O'Connor for next weekend's clash with Ireland as he called on fans not to "lose faith" in his team after Saturday's 26-19 loss against Italy.

The pair could return as injuries to fly-half Carter Gordon and prop Angus Bell forced them to be replaced during the game in Udine as a demanding schedule starts to take a toll.

"Lenny, he's fit and available next week, and he's had a week back with us, so he's a guy who adds leadership as much as anything," said Schmidt. "He's in our leadership team and has had a super season for us so far.

"James will probably add a bit of freshness. I haven't spoken to him about coming in (but) I've stayed in touch with him. He's had a good break over the last week or

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