The 26-year-old was left dejected with his own performance in England’s 30-17 victory over Wales – that he describes as the worst game he has played for his country.

Despite playing a key role in James Haskell’s decisive second try after picking off Stephen Jones’ pass, the London Irish man feared he would lose his starting spot to Ben Foden.

And having kept his place in Martin Johnson’s starting 15 for the visit to Italy, Armitage knows he has a lot to prove

He said: “I felt I let the boys down. I wasn’t in a very good mood on Saturday night. I spent a bit of time at home reviewing the game so I knew exactly what I needed to work on and didn’t have to come in and get told by the coaches.

“I put my hand up in the meeting and said ‘I let you guys down, I will be better next week for you guys.

“But I was pretty nervous about selection. Ben is a great player. He has been playing really well, he is putting the pressure on and I am feeling it.

“I am glad I have another opportunity. I feel I have a chance to repay the guys, repay the coaches. The Italy game can’t come soon enough because the seven day wait has been killing me.”