Ireland star breaks down in tears during Six Nations clash with Scotland

“We’ve achieved a huge amount – there’s no other way of putting it. There’s disappointment, obviously, but I think we can be proud of where we’ve left the jersey.

“It’s about honouring the jersey and I think this group have left it in a good place. Will I come back? We’ll see. It’s a tough one to take, as a lot of my friends won’t be back so I’ve a contract to the end of the year and we’ll see how we go after that.”

Ireland have enjoyed a positive Six Nations campaign and needed a win over Scotland to be sure of retaining their crown. They led England by four points heading into the final round of matches on Saturday.