But Robshaw’s side rallied after the interval with Owen Farrell kicking England back ahead before Manu Tuilagi’s second-half try and two late penalties from Toby Flood wrapped up a third straight win in this year’s Championship.

England weren’t at their fluid best and did not show the attacking intent displayed against Scotland and New Zealand in their last two matches at Twickenham, but France must take a large part of the credit for that.

And Robshaw, who was named man of the match for the second game running, admits his side’s defence was the cornerstone on which this victory was built.

“We were a bit slow coming out the blocks and with a brilliant try they caused us all sorts of problems, but we expected that,” said Robshaw.

“Credit to the guys, we stuck in it and once we got our attack going we found space.

“Our defence at the end made the difference. Our defence in the first half was pretty sloppy and I’m sure Andy Farrell will give us a telling off in the week.

“We pride ourselves on our defence. You saw Manu Tuilagi’s try came from our defence. Once we sorted that out, it was pretty good.”

England now have a week off before welcoming Italy to Twickenham and then heading to Wales for what could potentially be the Championship decider.

Fitness proved key against France and as les Bleus tired in the closing stages England were able to eke out some daylight – and Robshaw admitted his side will welcome the coming break before continuing their Grand Slam pursuit.

He added: “All games are won in the last 20 minutes or so no matter who you’re playing. Luckily we managed to get some penalties towards the end to give us a bit of daylight.

“We’ve got a good set of coaches and players and it’s about Italy next. We’ve got a week off now with training but no game to let the bodies heal. We’ll come back here to another full house and look forward.”