James Ryan: 'Irish teams are at their very best when we're on the edge'

England come to Dublin for a Six Nations opener on Saturday. 

BEST ON THE EDGE: James Ryan believes Irish teams are at their very best when they are on the edge. Pic: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

If Ireland are to give themselves a chance of retaining their Guinness Six Nations crown for a third consecutive year over the next eight weeks, James Ryan believes they will have to play right on the edge.

With England arriving in Dublin this Saturday, championship credentials will be thoroughly tested on the opening weekend with Simon Easterby in interim charge while Andy Farrell takes control of preparations for this summer’s British & Irish Lions tour to Australia.