Five Ireland players who flopped against Japan – and who Andy Farrell should replace them with

Andy Farrell's side were pushed hard by the Brave Blossoms in Newcastle, with another malfunctioning lineout and an inconsistent scrum ensuring there will be plenty to work on before next week's huge showdown with the All Blacks.

Several players enhanced their claims with standout performances, most notably debutant Sean Jansen, but others failed to take their opportunity.

Here are the five Ireland players who flopped against Japan – and who should replace them against New Zealand.

It was a landmark 50th cap, but one to forget. His opening lineout overthrow gifted Japan their first try and Ireland's set-piece never recovered. Another crooked throw and a string of inaccurate deliveries summed up a frustrating afternoon for the hooker.

Sheehan remains Ireland's undisputed first-choice hooker. His athleticism, breakdown work and lineout presence would be a huge boost against the All Blacks, with Ireland simply unable to afford another malfunctioning set-piece.

Clarkson retained his place after last week's match-winning try against Australia, but this was a much tougher assignment. Japan put Ireland under real pressure at scrum time and the young tighthead was unable to wrestle back control before being replaced early in the second half.

If fit, Furlong walks straight back into the starting XV. Ireland's most experienced tighthead would provide the scrum stability and leadership that was missing against Japan, while his all-round game remains among the best in world rugby.

Ryan came into the match under pressure after the Australia Test, and another shaky lineout display will only increase the scrutiny. Ireland's set-piece never looked secure and, although he improved around the field after the break, another knock-on with the try-line beckoning summed up a frustrating afternoon.

McCarthy brings a more abrasive edge to Ireland's pack and has established a strong partnership with Tadhg Beirne. Against New Zealand's physical forwards, Ireland need his power and aggression from the opening whistle.

Frawley waited patiently for his opportunity at fly-half but never fully took control of the contest. He missed his first two conversions, several touch-finders failed to find their mark and he slipped in defence for Japan's opening try. Although he grew into the game, it ultimately felt like a missed opportunity.

Prendergast still has defensive improvements to make, but his ability to dictate the attack and create chances gives Ireland another dimension. Farrell may decide his higher ceiling is worth backing against the All Blacks.

O'Brien endured another quiet afternoon on the wing after failing to make a major impact against Australia. He was beaten too easily for Japan's opening try and, despite a couple of positive moments in defence, rarely looked like troubling the Brave Blossoms with ball in hand.

If fit, Hansen should return immediately. His work rate, aerial ability and attacking creativity would give Ireland far greater firepower out wide, making him an obvious selection for next week's showdown with New Zealand.