Jonny Wilkinson revisits history on visit to Dublin

Jonny Wilkinson produced one of his finest performances in the red rose jersey as England beat Ireland 42-6 at Lansdowne Road in 2003. Now the back-up fly-half to Toby Flood, he has warned England to expect their biggest challenge of the championship.

Jonny Wilkinson does not live in the past, he does not bask in former glories and he feels uncomfortable talking about the adulation he has received over the years. But there are some occasions that demand he do all three, and England's return to Dublin for a Grand Slam showdown with Ireland is one of those.

Martin Johnson, the England coach, encouraged Wilkinson to provide an insight into what it will take for England to seal their first Six Nations sweep in eight years.

Wilkinson produced one of his finest performances in the red rose jersey as England scorched to a 42-6 victory over Ireland at Lansdowne Road in 2003.

Wilkinson, now the back-up fly-half to Toby Flood, warned England to expect their biggest challenge of the championship against Ireland, and he demanded an intense reaction.

"I'll never forget that match in Dublin. It was a big day," he said.

"We got off to a good start and managed to keep the pedal down, a strategy that will stand us in good stead again this year.

"You're rarely in that position against a team like Ireland. It was the culmination of lessons learned and lots of desire.

"No one in the England camp underestimates how tough it'll be to win there again. It's a sensational end to the championship.

"It'll be a big atmosphere and Ireland always bring that passion. The Irish players play even better at home and even better in big situations.

"I'm sure we will react enormously positively as we will have a lot to take on board. We are still in with a shout going into this last game, and it is all on the board there in front of us."

Eoin Reddan has been given the green light to start Ireland's clash with England. The scrum-half was concussed during the opening minute of last Saturday's 19-13 defeat by Wales after being struck in the face by a clearance.

"It was a substantial knock when he got it, but he's been good ever since," Declan Kidney, the coach, said. "He has had no adverse reaction so he's good to go."

Scotland have been forced into a late change to their starting line-up for today's bottom-of-the-table decider with Italy after wing Max Evans was ruled out due to an ankle injury. His place will now be taken by Nikki Walker.

Kelly Brown, the No 8 who was concussed against England, is fit to return to the team.