Substitute centre Keith Earls is also a doubt because of a shoulder problem while centre Brian O’Driscoll, flanker Sean O’Brien, full-back Rob Kearney and prop Mike Ross have overcome knocks.

Tomorrow’s match is being billed as an early Six Nations title decider, with recent history between the two teems pointing to an eventful afternoon.

Two years ago England saw the final leg of their Grand Slam end in a 24-8 mauling before putting Ireland to the sword 12 months later in a 30-9 triumph at Twickenham.

Munster second row Donncha O’Callaghan played in both matches and is hungry for revenge after last season’s capitulation.

“Our changing room has changed a lot, even since last year at Twickenham,” he said.

“Motivation is different for different fellas. Some guys want to play well so that they can be the next rock star, while other guys are driven by the motivation of playing England.

“Personally, last year left a scar that hurts and you’d love to put it right.

They did a job on us and they were more of a combined unit than they’d ever been.

“England are the standard-setters now for northern-hemisphere rugby. There’s been a culture of change. Now they look really tight and like a collective group.

“Sometimes before you could get into individuals. Last year when we tried it they seemed like a tight bunch, which is obviously down to the management.”

Ireland have a new captain in number eight Jamie Heaslip, but O’Callaghan insists his predecessor O’Driscoll remains as influential as ever.

“Brian hasn’t changed at all and that’s a mark of how comfortable he is in his own skin,” he said.

“He’s selfless in his want for the team to do well. You can’t speak highly enough of him. He throws himself around for every minute.

“His standards seep down to the rest and it’s great to have a warrior like that in your room.

“You know he’s someone the opposition fear. To have him is a massive plus.”