England return to the scene of their Calcutta Cup calamity insisting self-belief is intact and they can still retain the Six Nations.
Eddie Jones’ team take on tournament whipping boys Italy at Twickenham with fullback Elliot Daly warning: “These competitions aren't won on the first weekend.
“We know we can turn it around so this is a good opportunity to really fly into it and see where we can put ourselves.”
A year ago England were well beaten by France in their opening game but bounced back to lift the championship trophy.
Flanker Tom Curry said: “It’s never nice to lose but it’s one game, the tournament is still all there to push for.
“If it takes losing that game to learn more about ourselves and push forward then all the better.”
Defence coach John Mitchell insists losing to Scotland at home for the first time since 1983 did not damage self-belief.
“Our confidence is fantastic and we have focused on having a far better attacking mindset," he said.
“Why wouldn’t you keep faith in people that have been outstanding and consistent? There is no need for us to have a victim’s mindset.
“From my point of view it’s not about (players) repaying (faith) or anything like that - that’s desperate talk as far as I’m concerned.
“When you are a competitor and a team that sets high standards, it's about taking the opportunity to respond.”
