Eddie O'Sullivan's men face Wales on March 19 in what could be the Grand Slam decider, but first face Les Bleus, who have been unconvincing so far and succumbed to a superb second-half fightback against Wales in their last game.

But Wood, capped 58 times by his country, believes the reigning champions still pose a threat and that Ireland must focus fully on the March 12 encounter.

Speaking exclusively to rbs6nations.com, Wood said: ''It seems it could well come down to the final match against Wales to decide the Grand Slam winners, but for now the Irish just have to focus 100 per cent on France.

''I have been disappointed in the performances of the French team so far in the RBS 6 Nations Championship, but Ireland must still be wary.

''There is a danger the Irish could be in for a backlash as France look to make amends for that defeat [against Wales].''