Ireland and Leinster full-back Rob Kearney has indicated that he wants to continue playing after next year’s Rugby World Cup in Japan.

Kearney, whose contract with the Irish Rugby Football Union expires at the end of the World Cup, said he had contemplated finishing his career after the global showpiece.

But the 32-year-old revealed a combination of Leinster and Ireland’s impressive results and his form and fitness have convinced him not to retire.

“I wanted to leave it until after November before I had any thoughts on it,” he told the Irish Independent.

“I’ve made the decision now that I’m going to play after the World Cup, in some capacity. So, I’m still no further down the road as to where.

“It wasn’t in doubt but I just didn’t want to put myself under too much pressure… just to see how the body was first and I always find that where I’m at physically is determined by where I am mentally.

“When my body is good and I feel fresh and we’re winning it’s very hard not to really enjoy what you’re enjoying and keep wanting for more.

“It’s something that I need to start the process in the next month or so.”