The England squad and coaches have taken collective responsibility for the Millennium Stadium loss - and given that their next game after this weekend is against highly-fancied Ireland in Dublin, they cannot afford to get it wrong against Grand Slam champions France on Sunday.

''Last week, everyone under-performed from one to 15 - and we know at this level you can't do that too many times; otherwise we certainly won't get selected for the next game,'' said Robinson.

''We realise the expectation and the pressure and we get paid to perform under that pressure, so this is what we are all about. We've just got to do it on Sunday.

''I think at times you need to say what needs to be said. It's not easy sometimes, taking things on the chin, but I think I am happy enough to say what needs to be said.

''If that is giving people a kick up the backside then I will do it. But everyone knows that last week was very disappointing, and the main thing now is how we react to that and the challenge that lies ahead on Sunday.''

Robinson also had words of comfort for Newcastle centre Mathew Tait, who made his England debut against Wales at just 18 years old but now finds himself demoted from the team or replacements' bench.

''I have had a word with Mathew'', said Robinson.

''I still believe in him. He is an outstanding player, no doubt about it, but this week we have gone for a different option in Olly (Barkley) because of the kicking.

''Mathew has just got to take it on the chin, keep working hard like he is doing, and I am sure he will feature in some of the games.

''For me, he is still a great talent. If he was good enough last week he is certainly good enough this week - but we've gone for a different option, a different style of attack.''