The Italians were traditionally thought of as cannon fodder for the more established rugby countries, but have shown a steady improvement in recent years.

And when Italy take on Scotland at Murrayfield, Redpath knows there will be little to choose between the two sides.

He said: "Italy are as big a threat as any other nation. They play a tight game, have a big pack and keep possession well for lengthy spells.

"They have improved compared to three or four years ago, and we have to consider them a very difficult match in the Championship.

"But although they have improved, I feel if we attack them then there's no reason we can't win the game.

"I'm not worried that they've been scoring tries and we haven't. France eased up a little against them on Sunday but, credit to Italy, because they took their chances when they came.

"But we have to work on trying to stop them scoring because they are capable of doing it against anybody.

"But it's going to be tough to stop their forwards getting a head of steam together."