Andy Farrell pleased with Ireland's preparation ahead of Six Nations

Ireland head coach Andy Farrell expressed pleasure over his side's preparation leading to the Six Nations tournament.

Farrell's men kick-start their competition with a clash against Wales on Saturday at Principality Stadium.

They also enter the competition being the number one ranked team in the World Rugby Rankins and Farrell believes they are in a good position to make a mark in the tournament after a fabulous last year.

“We judge ourselves on our preparation and our preparation has been top-drawer,” he said.

“It's been as good as I've seen it in regards to getting ready for any type of competition.

“Hopefully that continues and it can translate into a performance. It doesn't really get any tougher than Wales first up.”

Meanwhile, forwards coach Paul O'Connell is expecting a stiff competition against Wales at Principality Stadium.

“It seems in international rugby the top teams have gotten closer and closer over the last number of years and there's very little between teams,” said O'Connell.

“We had a good autumn but it could have been a disappointing autumn as well but for a few points here and there. I've no doubt tomorrow will be a tight game as well.

“But we're in a good place, we've good clarity on what we're doing. There's real good leadership and ownership in the group, so they're in a good place to put out a good performance.”