England boss Jones 'pleased Ireland are doing well'

England boss Eddie Jones wasn't tempted to stir the pot in any way with his side's Guinness Six Nations match against Ireland too far away to contemplate.

The Aussie, who took over the Red Rose in late 2015, is preparing his side for an opening Calcutta Cup clash with Scotland on 5 February.

But at today’s virtual launch he was asked for his opinion on Andy Farrell’s team’s new-found style, which yielded a famous autumn victory over New Zealand.

"I’m sorry to disappoint you, mate, but I’m not too worried about Ireland at this stage," he told RTÉ Sport.

"The only game we are worried about is Scotland.

"I watched [Ireland’s] games in the autumn and we’re pleased they are doing well.

"Andy Farrell is a good mate of mine, we are glad he’s doing so well.

"We’ve just got to make sure he doesn’t do so well against us."

Meanwhile, Scotland captain Stuart Hogg and head coach Gregor Townsend also admitted that last November’s Test wins impressed them.

The teams meet on the final day of the championship on 19 March in Dublin.

"Ireland have a huge amount of experience within their squad and got a very good coaching side as well," full-back Hogg said.

"For anyone watching that game [against New Zealand], Ireland are a hugely physical side and they want to dominate you up front, first and foremost, and then put the ball in the right areas of the field with their kicking game.

"They have adapted their style of play and are looking to play a little bit more and so far it seems to be working for them.

"It’s always a tough game against Ireland, especially at the Aviva.

"Hopefully when it comes to that game we are going across to Dublin with everything to play for and it will be a good exciting game if things go our way in the build-up.

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