O'Driscoll fully focused on task ahead

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Gatland raised the temperature earlier this week for a white-hot Millennium Stadium showdown when he claimed the Welsh players disliked Ireland more than any other team. The New Zealander subsequently moved to defuse the situation, claiming he meant his comments as a "compliment."

O'Driscoll, though, had no intention of stirring the pot as Ireland completed preparations in Cardiff for a possible first Grand Slam season since 1948, saying: "I haven't picked up too many newspapers this week. I don't really have anything to say about it."

Quizzed further about what Gatland might have meant, O'Driscoll added: "I have no idea, you would have to ask him (Gatland).

"It is a long time since I have been coached by Warren - he's his own man."

Top of O'Driscoll's agenda is leading Ireland to a first Six Nations title - against the defending champions - and ending that painful 61-year Grand Slam wait.

"There is no need to make the situation any bigger than it is," said O'Driscoll. "I've been fortunate to play against Wales a lot of times. I've come out on the right result a few times and lost a few.

"We will enjoy the situation. You are a professional rugby player to be involved in moments like this, those pressurised situations, a great atmosphere in one of the best stadiums in the world.

"It would mean a lot. It would be a great achievement, but words aren't worth a huge amount at the moment. We will try and do all our chatting on Saturday, through the 80 minutes.

"It is a case of trying to beat another quality Test team. Our sole focus is on winning the game."