Fit-again England flanker Richard Hill has predicted a tough time against World Cup semi-final opponents France in Sydney on Sunday when he hopes to return from injury.
Hill has been sidelined by a hamstring injury and, in his absence, England have struggled, particularly in the quarter-final against Wales. And Hill, who hopes to make his return against France, does not expect things to get any easier for England.
"Looking at the semi-final and France they're certainly on form at the moment, and are playing the game with width and confidence," Hill told the Saracens website, www.saracens.com.
"Their back row, in particular, has been performing very well. It will certainly be the toughest game of the tournament for us but I know everyone in the England set up is looking forward to it."
Hill declared himself relieved to be able to play against France if selected by head coach Clive Woodward. He added: "I'm happy to be fully fit at last. It's been an immensely frustrating time for me.
"When I first did the injury no-one thought I would be out for this long, it was just a slight hamstring problem and we thought I'd only be out for a week or so.
"Once I'd missed a few games I must admit I was beginning to get a bit concerned but the physio team and management kept me positive and we've been taking it a week at a time.
"My main focus over the last few weeks has been doing everything that I could to help me get fit, which has meant standing around watching the guys for most of the time.
"I have to thank the medical staff for their patience. Last week being fit for selection seemed a long way off but to finally be there is a really good feeling."