And Gloucester scrum-half Gomarsall has vowed to expend "every ounce of energy" on England's cause against the reigning Grand Slam title holders.

The 28-year-old, a late replacement for calf injury victim Matt Dawson, will make his first Twickenham Test match start since 1997.

That appearance almost six years ago coincided with England's last home defeat in Five or Six Nations combat as France memorably fought back from a 14-point deficit to triumph 23-20.

Gomarsall collected just one more cap in the next three years, so the opportunity that awaits him is one he does not intend to let slip.

"My career has been full of irony," said Gomarsall, assessing the twist of fate which sees him, and not Dawson, coming face to face with talisman French scrum-half Fabien Galthie.

"I am obviously chuffed to have this opportunity, but I have trained all week with the team and Clive (Woodward) is extremely comfortable with it.

"I just want to keep as fresh as I possibly can, now, for Saturday, so that I can have every available ounce of energy."