We’re treating the England game as a cup final- Kidney

Speaking at the announcement of the Ireland squad, despite finishing the season trophy-less Kidney believes a win over England would represent a great achievement in itself.

Ireland received a boost ahead of the game as both Jonathan Sexton and Donnacha Ryan were shortlisted for the 2012 RBS 6 Nations Player of the Tournament.

The nominations are drawn from all players who picked up man-of the match awards in the first four weekends of the 6 Nations.

The Nenagh man was named man-of-the match against Scotland while Sexton received the honour against Italy.

Interestingly, there are no England players on the shortlist.

England name their team to face Ireland on Thursday.