The 24-year-old Biarritz player, who has 15 caps, has not worn the blue shirt in 11 months after being snubbed by coach Bernard Laporte for the November Test matches.

But he insists that he is now sharp and focused, and is approaching Sundays game in good spirit.

I was tired because I was playing a lot of matches and I was not at my best, admitted Yachvili of his performances towards the tail end of 2004.

At the time of the Test matches there were better players than me and I realised then that I had to work more.

There is a lot of rotation at my position so I don't feel under pressure. This match is the opportunity to show that I am here and ready when asked.

Last time France took on England was at the Stade de France in March 2004 when Les Bleus snatched a famous win and the Grand Slam.

But Yachvili knows the team will have to move up a gear following their narrow victory over Scotland last weekend if they are to give a solid indication that they can defend their crown.

Last year we played a fantastic match, but this is another story, said Yachvili.

We were far from at our best against Scotland. There were lots of new players in the team and they had to find their sharpness in a very short space of time.

This week we know each other better and I feel we are progressing faster.

Mentally, things have changed as well. Our motivation will determine how we do but playing against one of the best teams in the world is always a good boost.

Yachvili will be the goalkicker after fly-half Yann Delaigue, who seldom kicks for his club side Castres, failed to live up expectations last weekend.

Yachvili added: I kick for my club so I know the pressure and I can control it.