Brad Barritt has enjoyed an impressive Six Nations campaign © Getty Images

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England's tough tackling centre Brad Barritt has no qualms about sacrificing his looks for his country.

Barritt has five stitches in his chin following Sunday's Six Nations victory over France and the marks of an intense physical battle around his right eye. The 25-year-old relishes those scars of battle as evidence of his commitment to the England cause, which has been significant so far this campaign.

Barritt has been the cornerstone of England's impressive defensive effort during the Six Nations, making 60 tackles in England's four games.

"You want to step up physically," said Barritt, who completed 16 tackles in the 24-22 triumph at the Stade de France. "I have five stitches on my chin. At this point the looks aren't getting any better and I just have to make do with what I have got!

"If it is about helping the team it is a good feeling to come away with that and just show how hard you are willing to work for your team-mates. That has been one of the strengths of this side from the outset. Each player wants to be a leader themselves. You have guys willing to put themselves in harm's way and ultimately try and save a sticky situation."

According to England's own statistics, Stuart Lancaster's side have made 759 tackles in four matches so far this campaign, including a record number of 238 tackles in their victory over Scotland at Murrayfield. Chris Robshaw led the way against France with 25, Geoff Parling made 20 and Barritt in midfield is arguably England's best defender.

"It is just as important as someone making good yards or scoring a try," Barritt said.

England's defence could face its biggest test on Saturday when they face Ireland, the Six Nations' leading try-scorers. Against France, Chris Ashton's bold decision to come in-field and tackle Dimitri Szarzewski stopped France from scoring and led directly to Manu Tuilagi's opening try for England.

Owen Farrell produced a shuddering tackle on Imanol Harinordoquy late in the game and there were vital tackles from Dan Cole, Tom Croft and Phil Dowson which not only served to stop France but lift England.

"The cumulative effect of someone putting their body on the line and driving opponents back is a big statement both for your side and for the opponents," Barritt said. "You say 'wow, Harinordoquy has just gone backwards, Szarzewski just had the ball knocked out of his hand and we have scored a try'.

"It can be just as inspirational for the team and make a big statement on the opposition. A concept we have spoken about is try-scoring defence, where you apply the pressure and turn it into attack."