'Will be working really hard to put England in the best position possible' - Steve Borthwick

England head coach Steve Borthwick is confident that the team will be in best possible position when they head to France for this year's World Cup.

England finished the recently concluded Six Nations Championship at fourth place after they were defeated by Ireland 16-29 in the final round in Dublin last weekend.

They also faced a record defeat against France at home with a 10-53 defeat and overall managed two wins from five matches in the Six Nations.

Admitting that there is a stark difference between the top teams and England at the moment, Borthwick expressed confidence over their preparations in the next few months leading to the showpiece event.

“We’ll debrief this Six Nations thoroughly, we’ll take what lessons we take from it and be clear on our direction going forward,” said Borthwick.

“I’ve already said that there is a gap (to the top nations).

The team is not where it could be and, while we’re judging against teams that have used this four-year cycle tremendously well, that’s not what has happened with England, that’s not the position England are in. I can’t do anything about the past.

“I intend we will be working really hard to put England in the best position possible and I’m excited about what these players can do for the World Cup.”