"Ultimately, what we haven't seen enough of in the last couple of weeks is spirit, fight, hard work and graft. Let's be completely honest, over the last 12 months you would characterise this team by that. We need to be really clear on how we get back there, why it hasn't been there, and make sure it doesn't happen again."
"Rome is always a difficult place to play but with this Italian team looking the way they do, it's going to be the toughest Test that England have ever had against Italy. But bring it on. Times like these, and I would rather not have them obviously, but they are genuinely the most enjoyable times to be part of a team."
"It can be a defining moment for a team moving forward, and I think it will be. We owe it to everyone. We owe it to ourselves, we owe it to the England fans, we owe it to Steve and every single member of staff in the group because we are lucky and privileged enough to represent the whole country."
Jamie George, England's 35-year-old hooker and captain, acknowledges that England's Six Nations performance has been inadequate, attributing the collapse to insufficient hard work and fighting spirit. Despite England's perfect 32-0 record against Italy, the current Italian team presents an unprecedented challenge, having defeated Scotland and receiving backing from South Africa coach Rassie Erasmus. George emphasizes that the Rome match represents a defining moment for the squad to prove themselves. He stresses the team's obligation to supporters, coach Steve Borthwick, and staff, calling for maximum effort and unity. George views difficult circumstances as opportunities for personal growth and team development, expressing determination to overcome adversity.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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