Brittle Irish need leaders in Rome

I have become extremely wary of Irish performances in the second of back-to-back internationals and the fact that today’s outing is against Italy offers no significant comfort.

1. FRESH MINDSET

The most dangerous opponent facing Ireland at the Stadio Olimpico today is themselves. It has been one of the most demanding and harrowing Six Nations championships from an Irish perspective that I can recall, with injury and a succession of second-half collapses bedevilling the side from the outset against Wales. The withdrawal of Jonny Sexton within hours of being reinstated in the side on Thursday will not help matters either.