Wilkinson has enjoyed a successful year

Fly-half Jonny Wilkinson has called for England to make the step up "from good to great" in 2003.

Clive Woodward's side will end the year as the world's number one team, following victories over New Zealand, Australia and South Africa.

But, after losing the Six Nations trophy to France this year, Wilkinson has announced that England need to make a strong start to their season.

"It's been a good year for anyone associated with English rugby union," Wilkinson wrote in his BBC Sport Online column.

"We've had a number of good results, but we've also been here before.

"It's all very well being number one in the world. But computer statistics ultimately count for nothing if you can't win any silverware."

England face a possible make-or-break encounter with France at Twickenham in their first Six Nations game in February.

Being a good side will get us nowhere - we need to become a great side Jonny Wilkinson

And Wilkinson is under no illusions as to the importance of the result.

"A match against France is always huge," he said. "But this one, coming as it does in a World Cup year, is very big indeed.

"We know we have a strong record at Twickenham, but if truth be told, France are one of those sides who can win anywhere.

"And with the World Cup looming large a defeat is unthinkable for us. We need to make the next step.

"Being a good side will get us nowhere. We need to become a great side."