Former Wales winger Shane Williams has predicted that there is more to come from England after an uninspiring start to their Six Nations campaign.
Williams, who won Grand Slams with Wales in 2005 and 2008, made the claims in an interview with Betway this week ahead of Wales' trip to Twickenham on February 25.
He claimed that the game should be won by England and that Eddie Jones' side was unlucky in their Calcutta Cup defeat to Scotland in their opening game.
He said: "I felt England were unlucky up at Murrayfield and they put Italy to the sword, but didn't really fire on all cylinders, so I think there's a lot more to come from England.
"I’ve been very impressed with Ireland, they some lovely rugby, although not quite the same without Sexton against France. I think it's Ireland, England, and France that have the opportunity to go on now and win this.
"Wales travelling to Twickenham is going to be really tough, and that’s a game England will expect to win."
He also spoke about the chances of other teams, saying that there is still a chance any one of five teams could win the competition once it finishes in March.
The 2008 World Player of the Year said: "It’s still up in the air and that's the beauty of the Six Nations - you can't write anyone off and you won’t put your money where your mouth is really at the moment, because there's a number of teams that could do it."
Also this week, there have been rumours about moves to take Italy out of the Six Nations and replace them with South Africa, with Georgia also mooted as a potential option.
However, Williams has stated his desire for Italy - who would furiously fight such a move - to remain in the competition for the future, claiming that they are building a side capable of competing.
Williams said: "I’m a firm believer in Italy, they need to be in the Six Nations. I was there when they were introduced in 2000, and my second cap was against Italy.
"They’re always a side that don't have the luxury of the amount of players that the other nations get. What they have had in the past are world-class players, the Bergamascos, Sergio Parisse, that have helped them win the odd game.
"But I believe they are a side that’s building, and they’re a side that never give up. They have the right attitude, and I enjoy watching them, I really do. I would really feel for them if they weren't to be involved in the Six Nations anymore."
Georgia drew 25-25 with Portugal recently but are still ranked above Italy and are the only European contender to replace Kieran Crowley's Azzurri.
"My question is, is there a team in Europe that are better than them? I don't think so. For that reason, I believe they need to stay. But it is difficult." Williams added.
"I do think they are starting to try and get an identity, they're bringing young players through, the likes of Benetton are playing better in the United Rugby Championship. The coaching staff, they've invested in good coaches that are going to build this team.
"But they are they are still up against very, very good international teams which is always going to be very difficult for them anyway.
"I'm quite romantic, in that sense. I do think that Italy will get better, and are in that period now where they need time to grow and develop as a team.
