Wales have always looked upon the game against England as the big one, with no disrespect to the other teams. And it has been to our detriment on many occasions.

The English are going through a transitional period, but we must bear in mind that that is relative. England are stronger in their transitional periods than most teams at their peaks.

They are a formidable team and the last thing we want to do is not give them the credit they deserve.

Having said that, I believe Wales have as good a chance of beating England as we have had for many a year.

Our biggest problem is being able to convert good performances into results. We have had so many glorious failures down the years.

Wales are going through an evolutionary period, much like Ireland were until recently - glorious failure after glorious failure.

But the Irish came good last year - as their victory over England at Twickenham proves. We need to follow their example.

Mike Ruddock has been working a lot on the set-pieces, which I think will be important.

I am optimistic as we have a happy and content group of players. There are no real surprises in the Wales squad, but its good to see some new blood given a chance.

John Yapp has been brought in along with Ian Gough, whos been rewarded for some hugely impressive displays in Newports European Cup campaign.

Hopefully Colin Charvis will be fit as he has been in wonderful form for Newcastle Falcons and will have a major part to play.

Duncan Jones and Rhys Williams are struggling with thumb and shin injuries respectively and would both be missed.

But we have some very talented runners in Shane Williams and Gareth Thomas, while Dwayne Peel is producing some of the best stuff at scrum-half that Ive seen in a long time.

It will be a roller-coaster ride, watching Wales campaign, as they play their own brand of rugby.

Well need to be at our very best and play expansive rugby to give ourselves a decent chance.

I am hopeful of victory over England, rather than expectant. But Wales need to come out on top in tight games - and now is as good a time as any to start!