Dallaglio hails experience

The former England captain was quick to applaud youngsters Toby Flood, Shane Geraghty, Tom Rees and David Strettle after their impressive contribution to the victory over France last weekend.

But he insists England must not lose sight of the World Cup winners in their squad, especially as they look ahead to their title defense in France later this year.

"More and more I hear critics having a go at the guys who brought home the bacon (World Cup)," Dallaglio said in his column in The Sun.

"To my astonishment I see some 'experts' want to see Jonny Wilkinson and Phil Vickery axed.

"Apparently we don't need them any more. But when Jonny and Phil are fit again expect to see them back at the front of the queue.

"I was the first to hail the performance of the youngsters and how lucky we are to have so many brilliant youngsters coming through.

"But I name Mike Tindall, Mike Catt and Martin Corry (all World Cup winners) as the backbone and keys to the win (over France) few people believed England could achieve.

"There is absolutely no way you can do without the experience such players bring, especially when the heat is on."

Although Dallaglio is confident England can beat Wales in Cardiff, he doubts they can overturn the points difference deficit to claim the Six Nations title.

"Everyone knows we have an outside chance of winning the Six Nations title, but sadly I don't see that happening," he added.

"Not that we can't beat Wales, because I'm certain we can."

England have a points difference of just plus 13, while leaders France have a difference of 42 and second-placed Ireland 38.