Chosen one Davies pays tribute to O’Driscoll

British & Irish Lions centre Jonathan Davies is refusing to be sidetracked by the debate over Brian O’Driscoll’s omission for the third Test against Australia, and has instead paid tribute to the Irish hero he has replaced.

Davies, 25, was a controversial selection at outside centre for the series decider against the Wallabies in Sydney tomorrow, Lions head coach Warren Gatland preferring him as a partner in midfield with Wales team-mate Jamie Roberts and as a result bringing to an end O’Driscoll’s four-tour career in the iconic red jersey.

None of that is Davies’ problem as prepares to face the Australians, having been switched from inside centre, where he partnered O’Driscoll in the first two Tests in the absence of the injured Roberts.