Easter, who missed the entire autumn Test series with a calf injury, is almost certain to return to the England back row when Martin Johnson names his side to face the Welsh at Tuesday lunchtime.

The Harlequins No 8 has been enjoying a rich vein of form for his club, and with other big name players returning from injury such as London Irish full-back Delon Armitage and Brive centre Riki Flutey, Easter says there is a feelgood factor back in England camp after the frustrations of their autumn campaign.

“We will be confident going into the Six Nations,” said Easter, who won the last of his 27 caps against Argentina last June. “Johnno will be more encouraged than me but it is great to see some players finding their form.