With England next on the horizon for Ireland in the Six Nations, we were delighted to pitch together two former captains of both nations on Off The Ball as our premier rugby correspondent Brian O'Driscoll and ex-England back-row Lawrence Dallaglio shared memories and looked ahead to next week.
The former Lions team-mates chuckled over memories of the 2004 game when Brian's prawn sandwich jibe spurred on a World Cup and Grand Slam-winning England, but not enough for Dallaglio and co to avoid defeat at Twickenham.
But they also turned their attention to the development of both Ireland and England leading into next weekend's clash at Twickenham.
"He's box-office. He's almost Mourinho-esque at times. He's very clearly a smart man," said Brian on being impressed by new England head coach Eddie Jones.
England’s head coach Eddie Jones at the end of the Italy match with captain Dylan Hartley ©INPHO/Billy Stickland
Dallaglio also highlighted Jones' "proven track record" and also praised England newcomer Maro Itoje (21), saying that, " the way he reads the game and gets involved in the game for someone so young is very impressive."
But due to injuries and retirements for Ireland, Dallaglio is confident England can "get over the line against Ireland", although he says England have not put in a full 80 minute performance yet.
Brian also feels England are favourites to win the Six Nations having won two from two.
Listen to the full chat between Brian and Dallaglio on the podcast player:
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