Lancaster was subject of some stinging criticism from Leicester head coach Matt O’Connor for the release of half-backs Toby Flood and Ben Youngs from the squad to face France in the RBS 6 Nations.

O’Connor maintains that proved England were more intent on not losing rather than winning games, pointing to the two tries scored by Lancaster’s men – both from chargedowns – as evidence.

But Farrell, who took the reins at fly-half against Wales from Saracens teammate Charlie Hodgson, is adamant it is finishing rather than tactics that have prevented England from cutting loose.

“We are excited about the way we are playing at the minute," Farrell said. “The way we played against Wales was a massive step in the right direction for us and we all thought that.

“It was still disappointing to lose a game when we created quite a few chances but we are massively excited about the way we are going and I hope we can build on that.

“I don't see how else you go into a rugby game but trying to win it. I don't think I have ever had a mindset to just avoid defeat otherwise you don't play how you want to do. The way we played the game against Wales the other week proved that.

“We have got brilliant players all over the field and we are using them right at the minute, we just need to finish our chances. We are going in the right direction. It is coming.

“There is a structure in place but it is a structure which allows you to be yourself and play the way you play. We have got massive belief in what we are trying to do. Every game we have got better as a team.”