Jones heaps praise on the Irish

As is his wont, England boss Eddie Jones has talked up his side’s opponents for their upcoming clash – a significant one – against the Irish at Twickenham on Saturday. 

“It’s an important week in the tournament, there are three teams left in the tournament and we’re lucky enough to be one of those three,” Jones said. 

Both teams have, so far, emerged victorious in two fixtures with one loss next to each of their names.  

Jones proceeded to heap the praise on the men in green.  

“Ireland are favourites for the game, they’ve been in very good form in the autumn, they’re a very settled team, and very well-coached by Andy Farrell. 

“And apart from Andrew Porter I think they’ve got everybody available and ready to go. 

“They are literally, and I say this without any hesitation, the most cohesive side in the world. 

“The bulk of their team train together for the bulk of the year. 

“So they are very well-coordinated in their attack, they are very structured, they’re very sequenced in set plays. And they’re tough around the breakdown. 

“So that poses a great challenge for us. But we’re looking forward to the challenge, we’re not intimidated by any team and we’re looking forward to playing against them.” 

The unbeaten French currently lead the pack with a total of 14 points while Ireland and England occupy the second and third spots respectively. 

Jones and Farrell are sure to be on their toes this week as they prepare their charges for what is traditionally a cracking clash between two old foes of the game.