4 WAYS FOR ENGLAND TO PULL OFF HUGE UPSET

DEFEND FAR BETTER

It has been a tough first Six Nations for defence coach Kevin Sinfield as England have conceded a record 14 tries. There were 26 missed tackles as France had the freedom of Twickenham last week. If they leave so many gaping holes today, Ireland will put them to the sword.

WIN MORE COLLISIONS

Steve Borthwick was alarmed by how his side were out-muscled by the French. England inexplicably lacked ferocity. The return of Manu Tuilagi adds clout and they need to hit hard, with and without the ball, on the gainline, at the breakdown, in fact everywhere.

USE THEIR WEAPONS

There is no point picking Henry Arundell and Anthony Watson out wide just to chase kicks, they have to get passes in space. The same goes for Tuilagi. England have the firepower to trouble the Irish, but only if they have the ambition and precision to unleash it.

NAIL THE BASICS

With rain forecast, England’s staples must be spot-on. The set piece must stand up to Tadhg Furlong and Peter O’Mahony. Kicks cannot be wayward. There must be minimal penalties and fumbles and high-ball authority is vital.

THE TRIO THAT ARE ENGLAND’S ONLY HOPE...