New Zealand did not have everything their own way in Soweto however, and had to defend patiently in spells, but when opportunities arose in attack, they punished the Springboks in clinical fashion.

And Catt wants to see England close the gap on the Kiwis by applying the same ruthless mentality that has taken the All Blacks back to the top of the game.

"You look at New Zealand and the way they get one opportunity and score it," he said.

"New Zealand are very good and accurate at what they do. They are on the front foot a lot of the time and they can bring the big guys into the game. Everybody is going to want to get to that situation. It is how we get there and how long it takes us to get there.

"I am not saying it's not there (in the English players) but we have got to get to that, having that belief we can do it. It is about seeing the opportunities and understanding it. That is my role.

“From an attacking point of view, I want to see speed of the ball and movement of the ball."

Catt was also full of praise for Harlequins winger Ugo Monye, who was this week recalled to the England Test squad for the autumn internationals.

Monye has started the domestic season brightly, scoring four tries for second-placed Harlequins, but he has not appeared for England since March 2010.

"Ugo has been in great form," said Catt.

"He is hungry to get back to Test level and prove his worth. You can see that with his performances."