WALES lock Robert Sidoli (pictured) refutes claims his side have an inferiority complex and says they'll surprise Grand Slam chasers Ireland in Cardiff on Saturday.

British Lions manager Donal Lenihan said at the weekend that Wales were now a second rate nation and, what's more, the players themselves believed that.

But Sidoli, one of Wales' best players in their defeats by Italy, England and Scotland, said: "That's nonsense."

He added: "There's no lack of confidence in our abilities. We believe our skill levels and fitness levels are superior to most teams.

"I think our fitness showed against England and against Scotland when we scored the last two tries.

"Confidence is there but it'll be better perceived once we get that first win.

"Obviously we are disappointed we haven't won, but we feel our game is coming together and it's a matter of putting it all together on Saturday and getting that first win.

"On a personal level, I'm pleased to have played well because it obviously increases your chances of being involved again in the future.

"I think a lot of the boys have been playing well, but collectively, we have not done as well as we'd have liked.

"But if we can get all our performances on a par at the same time, we will turn in the good results we're all after."

Of Saturday's clash, he added: "Ireland are on the crest of a big wave. They're playing very well and everything has fallen into place.

"They're chasing the Grand Slam along with England and will be coming to Cardiff to build towards that and we're hoping to give them a big surprise."

And with that in mind, the Pontypridd second row tipped England for the Grand Slam.

"I would have to say England because we are obviously going to deal with Ireland.

"We have a bit of influence over their fortunes whereas we have no control now over England.

"It was a big plus to play at home against England with the superb support of the fans and we are hoping to have the same response again on Saturday and raise ourselves and play really well.

"There's a lot of history between Wales and Ireland. They seem to believe they always do well at Cardiff (where they have not lost in twenty years).

"They'll be very confident and it will take a good performance by us to put a result on them."

And Sidoli said the continuing problems in Welsh rugby would not affect the players.

"We haven't had time to think about the domestic problems. That's out of our control.

"Obviously people are concerned about the future, but they are professional enough not to let it affect them."