Donal Lenihan's verdict: England vulnerable, but has the Faz gone out of the Irish team?

Ireland start their campaign with a potential banana skin against an England side under Steve Borthwick still in search of a clear identity.

SHOWTIME: Ireland's Josh van der Flier (centre) and teammates during the captain's run at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Pic: Brian Lawless/PA Wire.

ANDY Farrell to the rest of us, but “Faz” to all and sundry in Ireland camp. Time spent in the company of the champion former rugby league great and, now, one of the best coaches in the union game, is always fascinating. The minute he opens his mouth, he gets your competitive juices flowing.

This promises to be a fascinating Six Nations campaign with Ireland, despite the temporary absence of their inspirational leader, favourites along with France for ultimate honours. Hopefully, by the time the French arrive in Dublin in round four we’ll still have two unbeaten sides going hammer and tongs at each other for ultimate glory.