The Irish last lifted the Five Nations title in 1985 - and the Munster star believes they have a point to prove after perennially just missing out on the Grand Slam.

“We're looking forward to the Six Nations big time,” said O’Gara. “I think we've a point to prove and this could be a good start.

“The camp was really positive and encouraging. There's a bond really developing now in the Irish team that might have been missing for the last twelve months.

"The Six Nations is a massive goal for us. There's a lot of fellas hurting in an Irish jersey and last week we decided we need to improve things and I think we will improve things.

"It's a time to be enjoyed and maybe it became a bit stale. Right now we’re refocused and re-energised and we're looking forward to the championship."

Ireland begin the RBS 6 Nations championship against France at Croke Park on Saturday, February 7.