Sir Clive Woodward has hailed England's "extremely talented squad" ahead of their Rugby World Cup opener in Japan.
But the 2003 Rugby World Cup-winning coach has warned players not to get ahead of themselves in the pool stage.
The Rugby World Cup got under way on Friday with hosts Japan comfortably beating Russia 30-10 at the Tokyo Stadium.
Eddie Jones' men begin their World Cup campaign against Tonga on Sunday morning, where they are favourites in Pool C.
And Woodward knows England must get past the pool stage before thinking too far ahead.
Woodward told the Daily Mail: "England have the quality and strength in depth to win this World Cup. I have no problem with them saying that, but they must not get ahead of themselves.
"England's total focus over the next three weeks must be the pool games and the initial challenge is those opening two in five days against Tonga and USA.
"I don't want to see England easing into the tournament.
"I want them to hit the ground running and to use their excellent squad to put these two tough but limited Tier Two nations away in style, honing that fast-tempo game that will be needed further down the line."
Woodward knows the importance of having a good pool stage at a World Cup, as when he lead England to victory, his side cruised through, winning all four games.
