Leonard, a key member of last years World Cup-winning squad, has dismissed suggestions that Sir Clive Woodwards men will struggle in the three-Test series against the southern hemispheres finest.

England have failed to adapt to the retirement of international veterans such as Martin Johnson, Neil Back and Leonard himself since taking the Webb Ellis trophy to Twickenham.

They endured a disappointing RBS 6 Nations campaign as their Grand Slam title was snatched by France while Ireland won the Triple Crown and also finished above them in the final standings.

And as if recent performances were not enough cause for concern, they travel without match-winning fly-half Jonny Wilkinson and his fellow England regulars Will Greenwood, Jason Robinson and Phil Vickery.

But Leonard believes last summers clashes against the All Blacks and Wallabies prove Woodwards troops have the stomach for a fight when the odds are stacked against them.

England learn from their mistakes and they will have taken on board what happened during the Six Nations. They will go to Australia and New Zealand and give both teams a massive test, he said.

There are high expectations surrounding the team after winning the World Cup but the lads have broad shoulders and they will take that.

Just look at what happened last time we went there - we hadnt beaten New Zealand in their backyard for 20 years but we won in Wellington in shocking conditions. In Melbourne we beat the Wallabies on Australian soil for the first time.

If any group of players can rise to a challenge then its England. They will be driven and hurt by what happened during the Six Nations. Their aim will be to put that disappointment right.

Englands tour features two Tests against the All Blacks and a World Cup final rematch with Australia.