Unfortunately for Ireland Earls had to withdraw from the opening round of fixtures for personal reasons as Ireland narrowly lost to Wales at the Aviva Stadium.

But he’s returned in style since then scoring a try in the resounding win over Italy before playing a key role in the 17-17 draw against France in Paris and last weekend’s comfortable win over Scotland.

And ahead of Saturday’s clash with England – which is likely to decide who finishes second in the Championship this year – Earls has earned the praise of his coach.

"I thought Keith [Earls] has been going very well," he said.

"Brian’s injury is unfortunate but I think Keith has had a chance and what has been nice is he has come in to do his own job and do it as well as he can.

"He hasn’t been living under anyone’s shadow. When you consider Brian has been in that jersey for so long that’s great credit to him for being just his own man."

"You don't lose players of the calibre of Brian and Paul O’Connell and just rock up. After the match, I wasn't so much congratulating them about the result which was great but the way they conducted themselves right throughout the week.

"There was a lot thrown at them. They just went about their business and we went out to give as good a game as we could and thankfully we got our result."