Six Nations mission: Italy back-row Sebastian Negri (C)

London (AFP) - Italy back-row Sebastian Negri said on Saturday the side have been “soul-searching” ahead of this weekend’s Six Nations clash with England at Twickenham following an embarrassing loss to France.

The Azzurri were overwhelmed 73-24 by Les Bleus in Rome a fortnight ago – far from ideal preparation as they go in search of a first win over England after losing all 31 of their previous Tests against them.

Italy go into Sunday’s game looking for their second win of the Championship after victory over Wales, with Treviso flanker Negri adamant they are determined to atone for their poor showing against France.

“We were disappointed, we want to make things right and we have got a big opportunity to do that,” Negri told reporters.

“We did a lot of soul-searching this week, a lot of reflection and we learned a lot from what we could take out of the French game.

“There were some positives, but obviously a lot to learn from. We are focusing on ourselves to put in a really good performance.”

England, by contrast, are bidding for a third straight win following successive one-point victories France and Scotland.

“They are winning. They won against a tough Scottish team and they beat France here. We are under no illusions it is going to be tough,” Negri said of England.

“We know they are going to fling the ball around just from some of the combinations they have picked so we expect that.

“But their fundamentals are really good –- they have got a great set-piece and will try and build from that. It is going to be tough up front.

“I have got a huge respect for all of them, they are top players, but tomorrow we have got to focus on our performance and take a step in the right direction after a disappointing day against France.”