Former Irish lock Donal Lenihan believes England are the only team standing in the way of back-to-back Grand Slam titles.
Andy Farrell’s side have performed well in recent weeks, with impressive wins over France and Italy.
Ireland next play Wales in the Six Nations, a game that Lenihan won’t worry about, before facing the Red Rose at Twickenham.
Steve Borthwick’s side, like the Irish, have so far recorded back-to-back wins in the tournament, the only team to do so, but their performances have been unconvincing.
ireland’s rival
With France struggling, Scotland still Scotland after losing yet another great spot and Wales currently in a rebuilding phase, the 64-year-old does not rate his other rivals.
“At this point it is very difficult to imagine anything other than another Championship success for Farrell’s team,” he wrote in his book. irish examiner column. “How about the first ever back-to-back Grand Slams? That can wait until another day.
“With all due respect to Wales next, Twickenham currently have two wins under their belt and stand as the biggest potential obstacle to an England team who will be celebrating the Calcutta Cup by the time Ireland arrive. .
“Having said that, Steve Borthwick’s men have not turned the lights out in either contest so far.
“Ireland were far from perfect[against Italy]kicking a little too loosely in the first half, but at times they looked like a different sport to the one we saw in London and Edinburgh the day before.”
Irish confidence
That confidence is a theme currently echoing through the Irish media, with Farrell’s side being labeled as “first class” and other Six Nations teams labeled as “mediocre”.
Lenihan, who faces Warren Gatland’s Wales at the Aviva Stadium on February 24, has no fear of his next opponent.
“The two weeks off before the Wales game gives us an opportunity to reflect on the considerable work that has already carved out a distance between Farrell’s team and the chasing pack, and not just at the Championship table,” he said. added.
“Ireland can look back on a very satisfying early game, recognizing that there is still plenty of room for improvement. That’s a scary thought for Gatland.”
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