Italy's Sebastian Negri expects stylistic change from England

Italy back row Sebastian Negri says the team have been “soul-searching” ahead of Sunday’s meeting with England at Allianz Stadium.

A 73-24 thumping by France in Rome a week ago was far from ideal preparation for the game against Steve Borthwick’s side as they seek a first ever Six Nations victory over England.

Benetton flanker Negri, who was raised in Zimbabwe and South Africa before continuing his rugby development at university in England until the age of 23, is hoping to help lead his team to a second win of this year’s championship following victory over Wales.

“We were disappointed, we want to make things right and we have got a big opportunity to do that,” he said.

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“We did a lot of soul-searching this week, a lot of reflection and we learned a lot from what we could take out of the French game.

“There were some positives, but obviously a lot to learn from. We are focusing on ourselves to put in a really good performance.”

Of England’s recent victories over France and Scotland, he said: “They are winning. They won against a tough Scottish team and they beat France here. We are under no illusions it is going to be tough.

“We know they are going to fling the ball around just from some of the combinations they have picked so we expect that.

“But their fundamentals are really good – they have got a great set-piece and will try and build from that. It is going to be tough up front.

“I have got a huge respect for all of them, they are top players, but tomorrow we have got to focus on our performance and take a step in the right direction after a disappointing day against France.”