Having won only three matches in five campaigns, and with Wales and Scotland improving, the Azzurri will again be favourites for the wooden spoon.

Italys first match is a daunting test against last years Triple Crown winners Ireland on February 6, but Kirwan has a lot of faith in his young side.

We want to win every game because I believe we have to think positively, he said.

Our aim is to be in every game in order to have a chance to win. We will think about every encounter as a possible victory.

Team manager Marco Bollesan firmly believes that this could be the year when Italy take a giant step forward and Kirwan expects his men to deliver.

I'm always looking to make a leap forward, he said. The work is being done but it's important to turn that work into results.