PRE-MATCH THOUGHTS – STEVE BORTHWICK

England coach Steve Borthwick said: “It was both pleasing and important to have started our Six Nations campaign in Rome with a victory.

“It was good to have done so in front of so many travelling England supporters.

“However, we know there are areas of our game to improve as we prepare for this Saturday’s game against a spirited Wales team.

“With a new player group and a number of new caps, we have tried to develop our game on both sides of the ball. Such changes take time, and I was pleased how quickly the players settled and adapted last weekend against Italy.”