France coach William Servat has insisted his side will not underestimate England after being left impressed with their performance in their Six Nations Opener.

Steve Borthwick’s men lost 27-22 to Ireland to highlight their recent decline, but Servat has reason to be cautious after singling out some of their strengths.

“I thought it was an impressive performance,” Servat said. “Perhaps it suggests they are not quite as clinical as before. Beyond that game, England are a team in transition.

“They lost a World Cup semi-final on a scrum decision, but they could easily have won it. They’ve also just come off a tour where they rattled a number of opponents. This is a powerful side, full of quality, intensity, and heart.

“And beyond a few standout individuals, England have plenty of players who can change a game. Their strength is their ability to reignite when things aren’t going their way, to flip a match on its head through sheer talent.”