Alan Quinlan says Andy Farrell is on his way to becoming the Jack Charlton of Irish rugby

Former Ireland and Munster back-row Alan Quinlan has said head coach Andy Farrell is becoming the Jack Charlton of Irish rugby.

Ireland go into this weekend's game away to England in the search of a second consecutive Grand Slam, something that has never been achieved by Ireland.

Under Farrell, Ireland have won a Grand Slam in 2023, a triple crown in 2022, and a series win in New Zealand.

In the most successful era of Irish rugby, Quinlan has compared it to the achievements of the football team under Jack Charlton in the 90s.

"Jack was incredible for Irish football. He had a huge impact on football here. But Andy won’t mind me saying this but we would have needed to get to a World Cup semi-final for him to attain Jackie Charlton status. But he may be heading that way!

There is no reason why he won’t. He is doing a top job and is appreciated not just by his players, but by people at large who see a player who was as hard as nails and so likeable."

Ireland will go into Saturday's game as favourites, but will face a tough test from an English side who will be eager to bounce back from their loss to Scotland.

Hoping to stop Ireland in their tracks will be former Ireland full-back Felix Jones, who is England's defence coach, and was part of the South Africa coaching staff in their World Cup triumph.

One standout feature of England's games so far is their aggressive defensive approach, which was seen in their wins over Italy and Wales.

Despite this, Quinlan is backing Ireland to adapt, and encourages Farrell's side to kick more to get in behind the English defence.

"They are pretty good at adapting to all situations. They will be very mindful of the physical confrontational approach England will bring. With Felix Jones now