Eddie Jones says Ireland most 'cohesive' team in world rugby

Ireland's selection system makes them the "most cohesive" team in the world, according to England boss Eddie Jones.

The sides meet in round four of the Guinness Six Nations in London on Saturday (4.45pm, live on RTÉ) with both, after two wins and one loss to their names, still in the running for the title.

Ten of Andy Farrell’s starting XV against Italy came from Leinster with two more on the bench.

Although they will be without prop Andrew Porter for the game, stalwart Cian Healy, who also plays with the four-time European champions may come in in his place.

The IRFU's de facto selection policy means only home-based players are in contention.

"It’s an important week in the tournament, there are three teams left in the tournament and we’re lucky enough to be one of those three," said Jones, whose side are third in the table behind Ireland and France.

"Ireland are favourites for the game, they’ve been in very good form in the autumn, they’re a very settled team, and very well-coached by Andy Farrell.

"And apart from Andrew Porter I think they’ve got everybody available and ready to go.

"They are literally, and I say this without any hesitation, the most cohesive side in the world.

"The bulk of their team train together for the bulk of the year.

"So they are very well-coordinated in their attack, they are very structured, they’re very sequenced in set plays. And they’re tough around the breakdown.

"So that poses a great challenge for us. But we’re looking forward to the challenge, we’re not intimidated by any team and we’re looking forward to playing against them."

Jones has been mixing up his selection this season and last, when they finished ffith, but the Australian insists they are on the right track for the World Cup next year in