Joe Marler reveals he supported England's Six Nations rival before seeing sense

Writing in the Mail Online, Joe Marler wrote: "Not many people know this but I grew up supporting Ireland. I loved guys like Marcus Horan, Jerry Flannery, John Hayes and Paul O'Connell.

"My mate, Matt, reminded me of it the other day when he sent a photograph of me wearing a green jersey as a porky teenager.

"I have some Irish blood on my mum's side of the family and I was a bit of a non-conformist. Even though I grew up here, I didn't want to be like everyone else by supporting England.

"It came to a head when I was 13 and giving it the biggun to everyone cheering on England when they were on TV in the club-house.

"Let's just say one of the first team players had a stern word with me in the toilets and I've supported England ever since.

Marler on Leonard: "My Idol - I still pinch myself when I'm in his company. A juggernaut on the pitch and a legendary drinker and socialiser off it."

Marler on Farrell: "The only indispensable player is Farrell. He is to England what Cristiano Ronaldo is to Portugal, or what Steph Curry is to the Golden State Warriors. With his leadership, ability and drive, England are a different animal. Owen takes things by the scruff of the neck, just like his dad."