Lievremont: Focused on upsetting the odds

France scraped into the last-eight despite being thumped 37-17 by the All Blacks and then being upset 19-14 by Tonga in Wellington.

Les Bleus have also been dogged by reports of discontent and infighting within the squad.

However Lievremont claims there are no problems and that the squad are focused on upsetting the odds against their perennial rival.

Lievremont said: "In the past France has traditionally needed this kind of electroshock to give its best.

"The concentration and commitment has been bigger (in training) than in previous matches, that's for sure.

"It's also linked to the fact we lost our game, so that's fairly normal.

"I am certain that the team has prepared well, I am certain that in the past, a French team, a group of men, that was problematic has faced up to the responsibility and given their best.

"I have faith in my squad."

England go into the last-eight match having won all four of their group games - and Lievremont admits he has total respect for Martin Johnson's side.

"I think the English can also learn a lot from our performances so far," Lievremont added.

"We know, once again, that England will give their best against us.

"We have the greatest respect for this team."