Wales’ final clash with France therefore could serve as the perfect way to get revenge for the 9-8 defeat in New Zealand were Warren Gatland’s men were down to 14 men for 60 minutes after Sam Warburton’s red card.

And Jenkins, who will win his 86th cap at the Millennium Stadium this weekend, admits that World Cup defeat is still a bitter pill to swallow.

“The disappointment of losing to France in that semi-final has spurred us on, to work hard and get back to that level,” said prop Jenkins.

“There is a lot of expectation, and we have to deal with that mentally and emotionally.

“You can’t avoid the talk. The public is talking about the Grand Slam, but as a player you just look forward to the next game. Italy is a big challenge for us.

“They are always tough, and they are the only thing we are concentrating on.”