Ireland head coach Andy Farrell says his side are prepared for a demanding challenge at Twickenham as they face England in a pivotal Six Nations fixture.
Ireland Twickenham Six Nations Preparation
Ireland enter the match with one win and one loss from their opening two rounds. While France lead the standings, Ireland remain within reach of the chasing pack as the championship reaches its midway point.
Farrell acknowledged England’s strong recent record in Twickenham but pointed to Ireland’s past successes at the venue, including notable wins in recent tournaments. He said the team expects a strong reaction from England following their recent defeat and is prepared for a high-intensity contest.
"Last year was a pretty exciting game as well, like you would expect it to be. We're ready for anything that's going to be thrown at us because we expect England to have a reaction to that Scotland game.
“We know from what they've been saying emotionally, they thought they didn't get it right. I suppose [with] where they think their squad is at right now, they were obviously talking at the beginning of the tournament that they wanted to take it to the last weekend there in France.
“The Grand Slam is gone but the competition is still on for them, and we'd like to think for us as well. It all adds up to what the Six Nations should be about: different emotions week to week because of what's happened the week before and here we are at the halfway stage. We've got a cracker to look forward to.”
Andy Farrell Team Changes For England
Farrell has recalled experienced players including Tadhg Furlong, Tadhg Beirne, Josh van der Flier and Jamison Gibson-Park to the starting lineup. Jack Crowley is also promoted to start at fly-half, replacing Sam Prendergast, who is not included in the matchday squad.