The Australian had no hesitation in giving the 22 who had their hearts broken by France last Saturday a vote of confidence by naming the same squad for the visit of pre-tournament favourites Ireland to Murrayfield.

But even with home advantage, Williams expects Eddie O'Sullivan's men to be an even tougher challenge than France.

''I think they are the most talented Irish team since the war,'' said Williams.

It was tough to go to France and get something but we will have to be even better here.''

Hugo Southwell's last-gasp mistake cost his side a famous result in the Stade de France, but the Australian has decided to stick with him at inside centre.

Ireland started the campaign with victory in Italy and the coach added: ''This is justified reward for the positive effort from all who were involved in Paris.

''We need as much cohesion with that group as possible against the tournament favourites.''

Ireland have injury concerns over centres Brian O'Driscoll and Gordon D'Arcy but Williams believes their opponents have the squad to deal with their possible absence.

''We can control a lot of things but we can't control the opposition's side,'' he said.

''We purposely don't focus on two players and whether they are playing or not playing because they still have plenty of great players waiting by.

''That's the real plus with Irish rugby at the moment. Their strength in depth is excellent especially in the backs - they are full of class players.''

Williams has urged the Scottish public to get behind their team and in return promised performances to be proud of.

''You usually go phases without winning but the players have to block those things out and concentrate on their game,'' he concluded.

''We can't do any more in terms of effort.

''But all of us heard the Flower of Scotland in Paris and it was quite extraordinary and the French crowd were quite quiet.

''But I want to hear them support the players here because we need that support this week. The game is a sell-out and it's a great message to all rugby supporters in Scotland.''