France’s demolition of Italy on Sunday means even if England do the impossible and beat the champions-elect in Paris, Ireland will need to overhaul a huge points difference to retain their title.

But with the Triple Crown still a possibility and the visit of Andy Robinson’s Scotland representing Ireland’s final match at Croke Park before they return to Lansdowne Road after a four-year absence, Kidney is desperate for his players to sign off with a win.

“For us Saturday is a final. Being a bit older than the players I came through two decades when we never won anything,” said Kidney, who will be well aware victory will see Ireland claim their fifth Triple Crown in seven years.

“We're playing Scotland next week in a one-off Test match which we see as a final.

“The GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) have been hugely supportive of us while we've been at Croke Park and maybe we can pay them due respect by playing our last match here as if it's a final.

“The Scots are known for ruining Irish parties and they'll want to do that once more.

“The great thing about the Six Nations is that no two games are ever alike and they all present different challenges.”