You are in > manchester.com  > News > O'Driscoll hails England duo

Rugby Union

O'Driscoll hails England duo

21/02/2007

Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll has hailed the influence of Jonny Wilkinson and Andy Farrell on England's backs division ahead of their Six Nations clash on Saturday.

O'Driscoll has been impressed with the way that Wilkinson has bounced back from three years of persistent injuries which prevented him from donning an England jersey.

"Jonny needs to be given time to get back into international rugby," he said.

"He seemed to have picked up where he left off the last time he was in an England jersey. He controls things so well."

The Irish captain said that Wilkinson would be pivotal player in the outcome of the game at Croke Park having seen his skills up close while on Lions duty with the England fly-half.

Farrell is in his first Six Nations campaign and facing the Irish centres this weekend is sure to be the stiffest test of his union career so far.

O'Driscoll said: "Andy hasn't done anything wrong. He's suited to the style of play as a second receiver - Andy and Wilkinson like to mix things up.

"They're both excellent passers of the ball and that gives England great width. Andy has a strong defensive game and has a lot of control."

Ireland will hope to maintain their chances of winning the championship and the Triple Crown with victory over England, having narrowly lost to France in the closing minutes in their last game.

The visitors still have a chance to claim their first Grand Slam since 2003 if they can get a victory at Croke Park.

© Adfero Ltd