Frederic Michalak: France will arrive in England ready to fire

France fly-half Frederic Michalak is determined to rise to the challenge of facing England at Twickenham on Saturday.

Les Bleus have failed to live up to their billing as Six Nations favourites thus far - falling to a shock 23-18 defeat in Italy before succumbing 16-6 to Wales in Paris.

Toulon scrum-half Michalak has drawn criticism for a pair of lucklustre performances at stand-off but is adamant that the trip across the Channel to try and derail England's Grand Slam bid comes at the perfect time.

"We are going to play against one of the best teams in the world," said Michalak.

"We're going to play with our heart, defend our colours and I hope it will go our way. It would be the icing on the cake.

"It's always special to play against England. We will try to dig and find something we have not found yet.

"France v England, at Twickenham, it's the ideal place against the ideal rival. You can't dream of a better stage - 80,000 supporters with all the folklore that goes with it, the atmosphere... I cannot wait."

Under-fire France coach Philippe Saint-Andre added: "We will need to bring enthusiasm and confidence into the game.

"We will not beat England by doing nothing. Going to Twickenham is a fantastic challenge. I want to be proud of a team who will go there to give 120 per cent of what they have."