Two try hero Dan Sheehan was a rank outsider to face England last Saturday, Ireland boss Andy Farrell has revealed.
Sheehan, 23, suffered a shoulder injury in the first half of Ireland's win at Murrayfield and, with a six-day turnaround, was given little chance of making it for the Grand Slam decider.
However the Leinster hooker played and scored Ireland's first and third tries in a 29-16 triumph.
READ MORE: Josh Van der Flier praises 'Hero' Johnny Sexton after Grand Slam win
“Wow, I mean, the reality is on Monday we didn’t think he was going to be able to play," said Farrell.
"But he was hellbent on us giving him the time - and the week was fantastic as far as preparation was concerned.
“The reality is it was a six-day turnaround and that’s what people don’t understand.
"It’s massive, a six-day turnaround. We trained once and we believed in what we’ve done over the last eight weeks and it’s stood to us and that’s a massive credit to the coaching staff.
“One, putting the plan in place. Two, being outstanding coaches, outstanding people and three, making sure that the players believe 100% in what they’re preaching and doing.
"And that’s all credit to them.”
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