After losing at home to Ireland in their opening game, Wales responded by winning in Paris against France last time out, prompting many to suggest Howley’s men are still capable of winning this year’s RBS 6 Nations crown.

Comparatively, Italy started with a shock win over France, before being outclassed and outscored by a rampant Scotland in Murrayfield.   

Howley has drafted in lock Alun-Wyn Jones and flanker Sam Warburton onto the bench as he adds some considerable experience to his Welsh squad.

But any Welsh fans expecting a one-sided contest in Rome this weekend are wide of the mark, says Howley.

 “We've always had a tough outing against Italy, home or away,” said Howley."It is one of the toughest places to go in Europe.  

"I think they have got a great set-piece, and it is important we stop them at source and impact the game on what we want to bring to the 80 minutes.

"We've always had a tough outing against Italy, home or away. They are very difficult to break down, they are very well organised, they've got some world-class players and they are coached very well.

"It is a good challenge for us. On the back of winning in France, we realise that one win isn't good enough. It is about some momentum, and we need to go out there and beat Italy.

"The key for the weekend is discipline. It is the one thing we will talk about between now and then."