Wallabies improving – Lancaster

England head coach Stuart Lancaster believes Australia are on the up after a difficult beginning to life under Ewen McKenzie.

England head coach Stuart Lancaster believes Australia are on the up after a difficult beginning to life under Ewen McKenzie.

The Wallabies suffered heavy defeats to South Africa and New Zealand in The Rugby Championship but defeated Argentina home and away, ending their tournament with an emphatic 54-17 victory in Rosario.

Now arriving in Europe with their confidence restored following an improved performance against the All Blacks two weeks ago, Lancaster doesn't believe Australia will arrive at Twickenham with revenge for the Lions series in mind, but more with the objective of repeating last year's win on England's home turf.

“I'm not expecting a backlash because the Lions are unique,” said Lancaster.

“Australia will not look at us any more personally than they would Wales. They will enjoy the challenge of coming to Twickenham.

“The Wallabies are improving massively in their quality of performances. I saw them play Argentina and New Zealand and they were right up there.

“We know we face a massive threat against them. They're a good side with quality players. We won't be taking them for granted – we lost to them last year.

“This is a very competitive Australia side with 500-600 caps, but having said that we are at Twickenham. We will be quietly confident about what we are going to do.

“There has been a lot of talk about our last match against New Zealand, but our only focus is Australia. It's important to get up to speed as soon as possible.”