Ireland heads to Twickenham on Saturday trying to get its Six Nations campaign back on track, wary that England's backs are about to finally show their best form at international level.
Defending grand slam champion Ireland needs to beat England after being outclassed 33-10 in France two weeks ago.
But the English have won both their opening games and scored four tries to Ireland's three despite failing to fully embrace the more fluid style favored by the most successful rugby nations.
Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll will line up at center alongside Leinster teammate Gordon D'Arcy, with the pair's attacking instincts possibly curtailed by having to contend with Riki Flutey and Mathew Tait opposite them.
"He's a very quick guy with good feet who has matured. They've started up a bit of a partnership which is only going to get better the more they play together."
England faced heavy criticism from fans and commentators for a sometimes turgid display against Italy in the last round but could be forced into what amounts to an adventurous selection.
Team manager Martin Johnson opted for an unchanged lineup for Saturday but Mark Cueto is ill and could be replaced on the wing by the uncapped Chris Ashton.
Former rugby league international Ashton has scored 18 tries for Northampton this season and could pose problems to an Ireland back line broken open by the speedy, powerful French.
But only if England can get the ball to its backs.
Johnson has long been criticized for England's lumbering and unimaginative play, not least in the 17-12 win at Italy.
The personnel seems to be in place for a more expansive style, but a high-pressure match in which defeat could end either side's title hopes may not bring out the best in England.
Captain Steve Borthwick said flyhalf Jonny Wilkinson should not be criticized for England's patchy displays.
"Two years ago at Twickenham they were 10 points down and scored 33 unanswered points to win comfortably."
Ireland has recalled Jonathan Sexton at flyhalf ahead of record points-scorer Ronan O'Gara in one of four changes to the side beaten in Paris.
Geordan Murphy replaces injured fullback Rob Kearney, hooker Rory Best replaces the suspended Jerry Flannery and Donncha O'Callaghan comes in at lock for the first time since November's win over South Africa.






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