France captain Thierry Dusautoir has not ruled out winning the Six Nations this year, despite France needing a remarkable set of results on the final day for that to happen.
France travel to Twickenham on Saturday needing to beat England by at least eight points while Wales must also lose in Italy and Ireland go down at Murrayfield against Scotland for that to happen.
Given France’s form in the tournament so far, labouring to a home win over the Scots before losing in Ireland and suffering a fourth successive reverse at the hands of the Welsh, simply beating England would seem a tall order.
But Dusautoir says the most important thing is to continue the progress made last week in their 29-0 victory over Italy in Rome.
“We’ve prepared in that state of mind. Last week’s match showed we can really play as a team,” said Dusautoir, 33, playing in probably his last Six Nations match.
“Above and beyond the victory, it (playing as a team) was in my opinion the most important thing.
“This weekend we need to continue in that vein. On top of the intensity and quality of England, we need to maintain our progression from last week.
“After that, we need to keep the inherent pressure of the top level because it allows us to go in search of the necessary percentages.
“Personally, I think it’s a great chance to come and play here in England, against a great nation, sure in itself and that plays attractive rugby.
“It’s a chance for us to take another step forwards.”
Dusautoir admitted he didn’t know what the necessary permutations are for France to finish top of the pile but said they first need to concentrate on winning the game.
“I don’t know them (the permutations). We’ve been concentrating on something else, on building a team,” he added.
“Tomorrow’s aim is to win the match. After that, if we can win the tournament, then why not.
“But we’re going to put things in order and be reasonable. What matters is our progress.”