Paul O’Connell: Ireland must be prepared for a ‘big performance’ from England

Ireland forwards coach Paul O’Connell fears Guinness Six Nations title rivals England are “on the verge of a big performance”.

Andy Farrell’s side must win at Twickenham next weekend to keep alive their quest for championship glory.

Eddie Jones’ hosts are in a similar situation to the Irish, having registered two wins and a loss so far, with both sides attempting to overhaul Grand Slam-chasing France.

After defeat to Scotland in round one of the tournament, new-look England recovered to brush aside perennial wooden spoon winners Italy before stuttering past Wales last time out.

O’Connell, who won three times at the home of English rugby as a player, is braced for major test and admits Ireland need to refine all areas of their play.

“We need to improve everywhere,” he said. “We’re going to Twickenham with a full crowd.

“England I think are just bubbling and are just on the verge of a big performance, so every part of what we do needs to be done better.

“There isn’t any one particular area but everything just needs to be a little bit more accurate. One of the big things when we’re away from home is just being calm. That’s one of the big things for the lads.

“There’s never any lack of intent, or passion, or emotion when these boys play for Ireland. It’s just being calm on the big occasion.”

Ireland dispatched depleted Italy on Sunday to make it 14 Dublin wins from 15 under head coach Farrell.

Away games have proved far trickier during the Farrell era, with triumphs at Murrayfield and Rome the only two victories from seven fixtures on the road.

Two of those defeats came at Twickenham in 2020.

Hooker Rob Herring, who returned from a calf issue as a replacement against the Azzurri and is competing with Dan Sheehan for a start,