Johnny Sexton is still Ireland's top choice at fly-half, despite recent stand-out performances from Paddy Jackson, according to former international Tony Ward.
"Sexton is still our number 1, but the gap has closed so much through the game-time Jackson is getting at the moment. Everything he did well yesterday"
Jackson kicked nine out of nine kicks from the tee in yesterday's demolition of Italy, and Ward believes he is finally living up to his potential.
"I felt last year on the tour of South Africa, he really came of age. He looked a quality player at this level."
Ward believes the Ulster man's recent displays for club and country create a headache for Joe Schmidt.
"Schmidt now has a lovely problem - the type of problem that he wants, and that is having two players, if not three, for a position. Certainly he has two outstanding ten's at the moment."
However, he says the Ireland coach will remain loyal to the Leinster star.
"I think if Sexton is fit again, I'll be surprised if Schmidt doesn't go for him. I think that's tough on Jackson, but isn't it a lovely problem to have going forward".
Tony Ward was speaking to Jamie Moore on Now That's What I Call Sport on Sunday morning.
You can hear his thoughts on yesterdays performance and where Ireland stand going into their remaining games in the full 20 minute interview by clicking play on the link below.
Now That's What I Call Sport is back next Sunday morning from 9am.
