Hooker George Chuter says England must keep their focus against Ireland.
RBS Six Nations, Ireland v England, Croke Park, Saturday February 24, KO 5.30pm
England hooker George Chuter has called for Brian Ashton's side to maintain their focus when they enter the caldron that will be Croke Park against Ireland on Saturday.
The RBS Six Nations clash between Ireland and England is not only a crucial one for the championship but an historic one given that the venue is being used to stage rugby union this season for the first time in its history.
With so much going on, Chuter says that everything will be against England on Saturday, but the team must keep their minds focused on the job in hand.
"The whole occasion is going to be against us, and it is just important we keep our focus within the tight bubble that is the England squad," said Chuter.
"We need to keep our minds on what we are doing.
"Saturday will be one of those days you play rugby for. It is a massive occasion against a good team in their own back-yard, and everything is stacked against you.
"We are underdogs, well and truly. There will be 83,000 people in a fantastic stadium, and you can't ask for any more in any sport, let alone my humble sport of rugby union."
Leicester man Chuter will collect his ninth cap in the match and he says he and the England pack are still finding their feet.
"Playing for your country is the pinnacle of my profession, and it is great to have had an extended run in the side.
"It is a big jump from club rugby to the international arena, so I guess I am still finding my feet after eight caps. I have been learning and adjusting, and hopefully, I can now start to play my real game.
"I am enjoying the way it is going and the way the team is heading. Despite what happened against Italy, I still think we are coming together as a team and turning into a pretty good unit."
| (-6) Ireland 10/11 Draw 16/1 (+6) England 10/11 - Click here for more odds with Sky Bet |
