Famously the rivalry between Ronan O'Gara and Johnny Sexton to play for Ireland was vicious at times.
Immediately asked if they felt awkward, Murray replied: "No, no. Ye make it awkward. We're all good.” But they are clearly a mutual admiration society and Murray confesses that Cooney's brilliance for Ulster this season - essentially, his answer to not making the World Cup squad - has made him worry for his starting position more than has done in a long time.
"That the competitiveness at its peak but there's ways of handling that too, there's ways of letting it affect your relationships as well."There's a lot of talk outside about the rivalry. But when we come into Ireland camp, we're genuinely trying to help each other. Whoever gets the nod, there's just a respect there."It's a really open environment - and the competitiveness is really open as well.
It's a different story 12 months on and he's enjoying working with Murray, who he insists has no ego and is approachable when they're in camp together.
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