ENGLAND head in Rome looking to bounce back from an opening weekend defeat to Scotland.
Eddie Jones’ side controlled most of the game at Murrayfield but were edged out 20-17 after Luke Cowan-Dickie conceded a penalty try for a deliberate knock-on.
Italy gave a good account of themselves in France despite being soundly beaten[/caption] Marcus Smith’s try for England was in vain as they were beaten by Scotland[/caption]The Red Rose have never lost to Italy and will be expecting that record to continue this weekend.
Italy haven’t won in the Six Nations since 2015 and the odds are against them ending that streak against England.
But they showed some signs of improvement in France, where they led for much of the first half and held their own in the second despite ending up as 37-10 losers.
Going into this match, Eddie Jones has been dealt a blow as stand-in captain Courtney Lawes has been ruled out for a further round of fixtures after failing to clear concussion protocol.
Regular captain Owen Farrell is already out for the whole tournament, meaning Tom Curry will step in again this week.
Italy 14/1
Draw 55/1
England 1/25
*Odds from Betfair correct as of Thursday, February 10