The real deal.

World Cup-winning coach Sir Clive Woodward believes “without question” Ireland can win in Japan next year after their impressive victory over reigning champions New Zealand on Saturday.

Woodward, who won the Rugby World Cup in 2003 with England, says Ireland’s strength in depth is “incredible” and has heralded them as “formidable opponents” for any team.

“These are great times for Ireland.” Woodward writes in his Daily Mail column.

“Their incredible strength in depth — Josh van de Flier was a stand-out on the night, yet is nominally Ireland’s third choice openside — and their growing consistency in these big games makes them formidable opponents. Without question they can win the World Cup next year.”

The 62-year-old says Ireland’s performance against New Zealand on Saturday night was “comprehensive and clinical”, and praised their “unforgiving defence for which Andy Farrell must take much credit.”

He also reckons Ireland will only get better with the likes of Conor Murray, Robbie Henshaw, Dan Leavy and Sean O’Brien to come in, along with a number of younger players who will improve over the next year.

“The frightening thing is that Ireland are only going to get better. They have those injured players to come back and a crop of youngsters making an impact like Garry Ringrose, Jordan Larmour, Joey Carbery and Andrew Porter.” Woodward added