Scotland arent playing all that well, while Ireland seem to have the hex over Wales, and we would hope we could beat Italy comfortably, meaning it will all come down to the two home games against France and England.

Being among the favourites is an unusual pressure for Ireland, not the kind were really used to. And although I think well cope with that pressure, theres no point hiding the fact that weve got a really big chance here.

It could be now or never for this group of players because, although the team arent exactly old, some of them may not be playing next year, especially in the forwards.

I dont think we necessarily need to win the Grand Slam to take the championship but if you get a chance to do the Grand Slam and you have a team that can do so, you need to believe you can do it. If you set your sights at only winning four games then you might only win four.

For this side the Slam is possible, although it will be incredibly difficult. But they wont be thinking about it in that fashion - theyll be thinking about one game at a time and making certain they can go and do the job as each match comes along. Its easy for me to say they might be able to win a Grand Slam because Im not playing anymore, but none of the players will be saying that.

For me personally, not being involved is much easier this year. There was sadness when I retired because I wasnt sure how I was going to cope. But its actually become very easy to sit back now and enjoy it - and I do enjoy it.

Although Im still close to some of the squad, I thought the best thing I could possibly do when I retired was to get out of there and not step on anybodys toes or hog any of their limelight.