ODriscoll and DArcy missed Irelands second match of the RBS 6 Nations championship against Scotland at Murrayfield due to hamstring injuries picked up in the opening-weekend victory over Italy in Rome.

But despite the absence of the magical Leinster centres, Ireland were still too strong for Matt Williams men as they ran out convincing 40-13 winners in Edinburgh despite falling 8-0 down in the early stages.

Ireland are certain to face a more sustained challenge to their hopes of landing their first clean sweep since 1948 when they tackle Andy Robinsons evolving team at Lansdowne Road in two weeks time.

Kevin Maggs and Shane Horgan filled in impressively but OSullivan will be happy to welcome back his captain ODriscoll and 2004s player of the RBS 6 Nations DArcy, who were close enough to making the Scotland game to have been named in the initial team selection.

If Ireland are able to field their first-choice centre pairing it could be vital to the outcome of the match given Englands own depleted resources in midfield, with Will Greenwood and Mike Tindall on the injured list.

He said: The week off gives us the chance to get people back, get a break and come back refreshed for the England game.

I dont see any reason why Brian and Gordon wont be fit. They have a lot of hard work to do in the next two weeks and they will be working harder injured than if they were fit.

That is going to be a very physical match but the boys are going back to Lansdowne Road, which has been a good hunting ground for us.

It is going to be a phenomenal atmosphere and we are looking forward to the England game.

We will recharge our batteries and come in next week ready to go - we are certainly champing at the bit.

OSullivan admits his side have not hit their peak yet but is happy to have seen them come away from two tricky away matches with victories.

After seeing Malcolm OKelly, Paul OConnell, Denis Hickie, John Hayes and Gavin Duffy run in tried for his side, he said: I am happy with the two wins especially considering the two injuries.

That did change the dynamics of the side but I said that if we got two wins I would be happy and I am very happy.

We have learned several things from the two games. We have learned to keep our shape and composure under pressure and learned patience as well.