David Campese of Australia, Phillipe Sella of France and now England's Jason Leonard.

'Big Jase' is one of the game's true greats

All three players are renowned for their longevity in the game, their ability to withstand injury and their passion for their country's cause.

But only one has a 24" neck!

So much has been said about "Big Jase" and, no doubt, more will be said this week.

For a player, any player - let alone a prop - to rack up 100 caps is a massive achievement.

All that and he has never missed an opportunity to walk out in an England shirt through injury.

It is a record that is unlikely to ever be bettered.

I don't think he'll mind me calling him a hero. It's tough playing in the front-row, because the fans often overlook the work that's put in.

But the number of caps speak for themselves. He is certainly one of the great heroes of the English game

French tension

With just days to go to our Six Nations opener against France, there is a massive amount of nervous tension within the squad.

It's never easy to rest when we meet up at our training camp, because there is always a video to watch or a move to discuss.

This week, the pressure will be greater than ever. France are a danger, it's as simple that.

This match has been in the back of our minds for months, and as players, when we sit down and talk about what we want to achieve, it's obvious that there is a real apprehension.

I don't think I'm giving too much away if I admit we're aware we will have to perform at our peak to protect our Twickenham record.

Yes, we've beaten New Zealand, Australia and South Africa recently. But, as any Kiwi will tell you, there's always something particularly worrying about playing 'Les Bleus'.

France's success lies in their ability to ally a physical approach with a supremely mobile one

In days gone by, I guess you'd hear quotes about their unpredictability.

Well, those days are long gone. Their success - and danger - lies in their ability to ally a physical approach with a supremely mobile one.

They have masses of creativity, numerous game-breakers and one of biggest packs in world rugby.

On a personal note, I'm feeling good, particularly after Newcastle's weekend victory over Leeds.

The spectre of relegation still hangs over us, but claiming the points away at Leeds was a superb achievement, and we all felt a little more relieved after the game.

For those of us on England duty, however, the relief quickly turned to anticipation of the enormity of the task ahead.

I hope you're excited. It's a big week, both for the players and fans.

But with "Big Jase" in the dressing room - what can possibly go wrong?

	:	England
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