Tuesday 18 February 2020 22:45, UK
Lewis Ludlam believes England can put their indifferent start to this year's Six Nations behind them and go on to lift the title.
Eddie Jones' side face Ireland at Twickenham on Sunday on the back of a 13-6 win over Scotland in the Calcutta Cup after an opening 24-17 defeat to France.
Ludlam is confident England's challenge can gather momentum with a win over tournament favourites Ireland, who remain on course for the Grand Slam after beating Scotland 19-12 and Wales 24-14 in their opening two matches.
"Absolutely we back ourselves. We always back ourselves, otherwise we wouldn't be out there," Ludlam said.
"We have full belief in the team. It will be a hard thing to do but we're aware of the ability we have in the team.
"As a team and as players we are always looking at hunting other teams down and scraping out wins. That has always been my mindset."
Ludlam, a central figure in Jones' back-row since the World Cup, also believes it will be important to keep emotions in check in order for England to get the result they need.
"After the team is announced I'm buzzing and ready. I'm thinking about situations and being involved in the game," Ludlam added.
"It's a good thing, but there's a fine line between being excited and having the emotion drain you.
"I haven't felt drained in games yet but I'm fully aware that the lads who have played in the shirt for a long time have learned how to control their emotions and how to switch them on and off.
"I'm excited early on but I don't necessarily think that's a bad thing, but it's something I'm working on."
