Star man Maro Itoje praised by second row Alun Wyn Jones

Second row Itoje was in sensational form at Twickenham and it was his break that led to England’s only try for Anthony Watson.

Wasps ace Itoje, who is only 21, shone throughout the match as England maintained their chances of a first Grand Slam in the Six Nations for 13 years.

“I said in the week that whether he played four or six he would have an influence on the game and he did that,” said the Welshman.

“Our tackle count was down but he made a great break and set up their only try.

“He had that influence and I thought he was pretty special.

“At a young age it’s very easy not to apply yourself in the international arena as you do domestically and it’s a credit to himself that he has been able to do that.”

Despite the disappointment of Saturday’s 25-21 loss, Jones doesn’t see it as being a turning point in the career of this Wales team.

He added: “I wouldn’t say it’s a watershed. I think it’s a realisation off a pretty tough year, but that’s no excuse. We’ve got to kick on and finish with a win.”

And assessing why things went so wrong for Wales before the break, he continued: “From the stats the tackle county sums up where we’re at.

“In fairness to England they played really well and the tackle contest shows the momentum they had, and they took that.

“It’s very easy to tell other people to do their job but ultimately we’re professionals and every individual has to rely upon themselves and be sure of themselves.

“To a point we didn’t do that as individuals and then obviously you splinter as a side.

“We can be pleased with the way we regrouped with the changes, I thought the bench made a great impact, and the team came through in the last 10-15 minutes but it was too little, too late.

“There’s another game left and it wouldn’t surprise me if changes are made, but in saying that the guys who had a poor first half will want the opportunity to put that right.”