If hes being consistent, Sir Clive Woodward isnt going to bring him back unless his club form suddenly becomes extraordinary. So, after 114 caps, we could have seen the last of Jason in an England jersey.

He will be feeling down at being left out, and if it is to mean the end of his international career he would have wanted to go out on his own terms.

It might be suggested that he could be given an official farewell appearance, to give the public the chance to pay tribute to him. But I dont think sport works like that, its often a cruel game.

I would have been tempted to go out on a high after the World Cup, but Jasons his own man.

There are three changes to the starting XV, one of which sees Matt Dawson replace Andy Gomarsall. Andys unlucky, because hes had two good games this RBS 6 Nations season, but Dawsons slightly the better player.

The other two changes - with Joe Worsley and Steve Borthwick coming into the forwards - certainly wont weaken the pack, which I see as being key to the outcome of Saturdays game.

Ireland would have much preferred this game to be in Dublin, because England have tended to beat everybody at home.

But Ireland do have a good pack, and their strong line-out will be the basis of their belief that they can win this game. They also, when Brian ODriscoll plays, have a good set of backs to go with it.

England havent had the continuity in their two games so far. They need to vary the point of attack, take the opposition pack on and make space for their backs.

What Sir Clive will want to see is a gradual improvement, and the ironing-out of the problems theyve had so far.

The Irish will have to get among Englands pack because otherwise, if England get continuity, they will just put them away. Once England get in front, its extremely difficult for the opposition to come back and win the game.