Six Nations
Sergio Parisse calls on Eddie Jones to show Italy some respect
PA Sport
February 13, 2016
© Jean Catuffe/Getty Images

Sergio Parisse has swatted aside Eddie Jones' demand that his England team give Italy a "good hiding" when the RBS 6 Nations rivals collide in Rome on Sunday.

Jones urged his players to put the Azzurri to the sword shortly after Scotland had been dispatched 15-9 at Murrayfield, but Parisse takes no offence at the comments and draws on last weekend's narrow defeat in Paris for comfort.

"I hope he still respects our team. Before our game against France a lot of people talked about them beating us by 30 or 40 points," Italy's captain said.

"Maybe England can beat us by 40 points, maybe Eddie is right, but maybe not. Let's talk about it after the match.

"Eddie Jones I think is a great coach and obviously he is trying to motivate his squad after Scotland. I think he just believes a lot in his team.

"He's trying to give a message to his players by saying let's go to Rome and smash the Italian team. I don't care.

"It won't make me play a better game because Eddie Jones said that. It won't motivate me or my team.

"I respect his team, but for me it is important that I play a great match for my team-mates and my country."

Parisse is looking forward to his duel with opposite number Billy Vunipola, who was man of the match at Murrayfield.

"Billy is a really good ball carrier and puts England on the front foot. He will be one of the key players so we must stop him," number eight Parisse said.

"It will be a good challenge against him and hopefully we have a good defence to stop him and the England team."

© PA Sport

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