But Kidney is aware of the threat Wales pose and says they could have easily been arriving in Dublin chasing a Grand Slam.

“Wales have been really unlucky not to win all three,” said Kidney.

“I don’t see them giving us the points that England and France got. They are a side that makes you play for the 80 minutes, as was shown last year in Cardiff when it was really just the kick of the ball between us.

“It’s going to be another huge game – you have to get it right against them.”

And Kidney remembers all too well how Wales triumphed 16-12 in Dublin en-route to the Grand Slam two years ago.

“Last time they were in Croke Park they won – they seemed to like it,” Kidney added.

“They are playing a good game and I’m sure they will go after us.

“That’s a pleasing thing too. We were seen as a scalp at the start of the season but we’ve answered two out of three calls now. We’ve another two to answer but the Welsh one is the only thing we’ll be concentrating on.”