But it also goes without saying that Italy will be really motivated and desperate to perform well.

The only way Italy can play against England is to be really aggressive and to put them under pressure throughout the game. What we must also hope is that, after winning the World Cup, England may have relaxed a little, or that they might underestimate the Italians.

The absence of Jonny Wilkinson through injury gives a little more hope than we might otherwise have had, although Englands second choices are still of a very high level.

I think it is vital that Italy do not suffer a heavy defeat, because if they do not it will give the players a lot more belief in themselves. It will also give us more credibility and more respect, which we are always looking to earn. If Italy are badly beaten, it will not help the support for the team.

One of the major differences between the two teams is that England have players who can change the game at any moment, and Italy do not.

One such player is Jason Robinson. I would say that he is perhaps Englands most dangerous player and a man that Italy really have to be careful of. Anyone who saw his try against Wales in the World Cup quarter-final knows just how devastating he can be.

I am not saying we dont have good players - the likes of stand-in captain Andrea De Rossi and Sergio Parisse have quality. But as for players who can change the game - I just dont think we have one.