Martin Johnson didn’t hesitate when naming the best player he’s ever seen live

Widely acclaimed as one of the greatest locks in rugby history, Johnson recently revealed his picks for the five toughest opponents he faced in his illustrious career.

These five exceptional players, as chosen by Johnson, represent the highest echelons of international rugby and reflect the intensity of the challenges he faced throughout his remarkable career.

Former New Zealand rugby player and captain. Known for his leadership skills and dominant presence as a hooker. Won the Rugby World Cup in 1987.

A respected figure in the sport, Fitzpatrick's tenacity and determination made him a legend in the All Blacks' history.

Johnson said: " “Played for the All Blacks for ten years, a fantastic competitor and a great captain.”

Australian rugby union player. A versatile back, he excelled as a winger and fullback. Helped Australia win the Rugby World Cup in 1999.

Roff's exceptional speed, agility, and try-scoring ability made him one of the most feared players of his era.

Johnson said: “You’d put David Campese up there but Roff is my choice. A fantastic all-round rugby player, and old-style wing.”

Former Irish rugby player and an inspiring leader on and off the field. Known for his immense physicality, intelligence, and astute line-out skills.

O'Connell captained Ireland and the British and Irish Lions, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the game's most respected and influential figures.

Johnson said: "The Ireland captain was a very special player. A character on and off the field, playing against a young O'Connell in 2002 it was clear he was going to be something really special."

Former New Zealand rugby union player and one of the most accomplished captains in the history of the sport.

As an openside flanker, McCaw was known for his exceptional skills at the breakdown and his unmatched work rate. Led the All Blacks to victory in the Rugby World Cups of 2011 and 2015.

Johnson said: “Just the way he carried himself and the way he spoke to his players, it had a big influence on players around him. A legend of the game,"

The late New Zealand rugby legend and one of the sport's greatest players. A powerhouse winger with remarkable speed and strength.

Known for his incredible performances in the Rugby World Cup, Lomu left an indelible mark on the game and became a global sporting icon.

Johnson said: "A guy like Jonah Lomu could do things that nobody could do and change games. Nobody else on the field would have scored that try and they went on to win the game. But even he needed his teammates... sometimes he didn't.

"Seeing him live and in the flesh was something else,"