England aim to be disciplined but aggressive against Grand-slam chasing France

Henry Slade insists England are ready to deliver a performance of disciplined ferocity when they launch their Guinness Six Nations salvage operation against France.

Fabien Galthie's tournament favourites visit Twickenham today with their coronavirus outbreak behind them and the Grand Slam in their sights.

England, meanwhile, were removed from title contention as early as round three when they collapsed against Wales as their debilitating indiscipline reached its nadir at the Principality Stadium. The focus for the week has been eradicating avoidable penalties but, while observing the importance of staying the right side of the whistle, Slade insists England must not lose the physical edge that is their hallmark.

"We've placed some individual responsibility on discipline. I know it's been bit of a problem for us for a little while and we've been genuinely addressing it," the Exeter centre said.

"But we have to couple that with our intent to attack the game. We've still got be on the edge, you can't just go into your shells and play soft. You still have to be going for it and pushing the limits all the time, but just with the understanding that discipline is so key. "

France have been told to forget about a potential Grand Slam and focus on claiming a first competitive win over England at Twickenham since 2005 by general manager Raphael Ibanez. Former captain Ibanez said: "Now it's 16 years that a French team has not won on English soil so before any talking (about the Grand Slam), this game is especially magnificent for this group and they will launch fully into this challenge that awaits us."