Wilkinson has been ruled out of the Twickenham clash with a hamstring complaint, the latest in a long line of injuries suffered by the Newcastle star.

Skrela has impressed so far in this year's RBS 6 Nations and has held his own opposite some of Europe's leading fly-halves, such as Ireland's Ronan O'Gara and Stephen Jones of Wales.

Going head to head with World Cup winner Wilkinson would have arguably been a greater challenge, according to the Stade Francais number 10.

Having played against Ronan O'Gara and Stephen Jones, it would have been interesting to have played against another 10 who is of the highest standard, said Skrela.

It is difficult to find a better player in his position. I am also saying to myself that his absence will perhaps mean England will score less points.

That is good news for us, but we can't just focus on that.

Wilkinson's replacement on Sunday will be his Falcons team-mate Toby Flood, who has been tipped for great things on the international stage.

That is one of a clutch of changes made by new coach Brian Ashton to the world champions' line-up following their 43-13 mauling at the hands of Ireland a fortnight ago.

Skrela knows little about four-cap Flood, and a number of other players in the England starting XV.

It is true that there are a lot of changes, notably the selection of Martin Corry in the second row, he added.

I don't know all the players. That is especially the case with their fly-half Toby Flood.

I don't know much about him apart from the fact that he plays at Newcastle with Wilkinson, and that some say he is his clone.

I have spoken a bit with (Wasps and France hooker) Raphael Ibanez about him and he said he is a good rugby player.

England also perhaps want to see other players in view of the World Cup, and these players will be ready to take us on this weekend.

Skrela has made Les Bleus' fly-half berth his own following mature and measured displays in the wins over Italy, Ireland and Wales, which have put France top of the RBS 6 Nations table.