What is a realistic ambition for the four autumn internationals?

Given where we’ve been and where we are, a good but bruising win against the Pacific Islanders is a must and if we can somehow get a draw and two narrow losses against the big three of Australia, New Zealand and South Africa then consider ourselves on track. At least one win against one of those three and we will have done outstandingly well.

There’s no reason why we should be any further ahead than the early Clive Woodward years. There is a dearth of experience in the squad and therefore, at this moment, a lack of outstanding leaders on the park – only such a paucity can lead to Steve Borthwick being the only obvious candidate as England captain.