'Tough week but fantastic challenge' awaits Ireland - Eddie O'Sullivan

Ireland must focus on themselves and get the basic right in order to stay in the fight against England next weekend, says Eddie O'Sullivan.

The Red Roses sit atop of the TikTok Women’s Six Nations with three wins from three in the tournament so far.

That run takes Simon Middleton’s charges’ winning streak to 21 Tests and they have amassed 31 tries in victories over Scotland, Italy and Wales.

It’s a daunting task for Greg McWilliams’ side and one that they will take on minus much of their backline, who will not be available due to sevens commitments.

O’Sullivan, who led Ireland to three Triple Crowns in his 2001 to 2008 tenure, said they squad must be realistic but added that there are a number of areas where they should focus on in training before the game at Welford Road.

"They have to focus on their own performance," he told the RTÉ Rugby podcast.

"The notion that they are going to lose a number of key players, go away from home against England and win...

"You’ve got to be realistic, I don’t see that happening. It would be a massive shock.

"What you do in those situations is stayed focused on yourself.

"It’s about what Ireland can do next weekend.

"If I am playing a team away from home and they are stronger, and there’s a good chance they hit their straps, it could be an ugly day out.

"It’s that old Bill Shankly mantra, 'it starts at 0-0, don’t let it get any worse’.

"Defence is going to be key and most of the time this week will be spent on defence.

"They may change up their defence, throw a curve ball in there, you might go blitz and you might go drift so they are not sure.

"You may not contest the ruck because how many ruck are you going to win over 80 minutes against England?

"Unless you are 100% sure you are going to get on the