England should recall fortune favours bold
However, there is a sense that England have to be less inhibited, less intent on survival or damage limitation. The autumn series was a chastening experience for coaches and players: minimal return, miserable mood.
There was a feeling in the autumn that England were playing without true conviction, that they didn't wholly trust themselves. If nothing else this Six Nations, they have to play without fear.
In part, this approach can be reflected in personnel. Yet there will not be many radical departures from the script when the squads are unveiled (a 32-man Saxons squad will also be named), with the likely promotion of Chris Ashton, Northampton's high-scoring wing, the stand-out change. Saracens flanker Andy Saull is also in the mix.
The return of the cavalry in the form of those missing through injury in the autumn means that England will have a much fuller complement of first-choice players for the opening game against Wales at Twickenham on Feb 6.
Three absentees – centre Riki Flutey, full-back Delon Armitage and No 8 Nick Easter – should go straight into the starting line-up. Flutey's impressive return for Brive against Perpignan 10 days ago is heartening news. He has been sorely missed, his availability meaning a downgrade for Shane Geraghty who was tried out in that No 12 role. The enforced strategy of going for two playmakers, Wilkinson splitting the role with Geraghty, will be revised now that Flutey is back in the frame.
England's big problem is at outside centre. Mike Tindall has not shaken off his hamstring problem. He is a pivotal figure for England, a leader, a steadying influence. Leicester's Danny Hipkiss, who started at No 13 in all three November Tests, is a fine player but has yet to bring the same presence to the role.
England could slot Toby Flood in at 12 and shift Flutey to outside centre but that risks undermining the very qualities he brings at inside centre. Bath's Shontayne Hape is also in the reckoning, though his kicking game still requires work.
Danny Care is shaping up for a starting role at scrum-half with instructions to play with the same gusto he shows in a Harlequins shirt. This is a message for more than just Care. The time has come for them also to consider substituting captain Steve Borthwick if they want to try Northampton's tyro lock, Courtney Lawes alongside Simon Shaw.
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