CHISELDON’S Jonny May admits he has one eye on the upcoming home World Cup as he prepares for today’s match against Italy.

The Gloucester wing had a frustrating start to this year’s Six Nation campaign in Cardiff last Friday after his early mistakes led to a penalty for the hosts followed by Toby Faletau crossing the line.

Despite England’s come-back victory May was unable to prove himself with the ball in hand.

Now the 24-year-old is looking to put that right this afternoon when he steps out to face the Azzurri.

With England firm favourites to get their second win of the Six Nations under their belt against May is looking to impress in front of a full Twickenham crowd.

The home of English rugby will play host to all of England’s World Cup pool A matches in the autumn and the former Royal Wootton Bassett player is looking to use the Six Nations as a way to cement himself in Stuart Lancaster’s plans.

“There is a lot going on at the moment in terms of big games and big tournaments,” said May.

“A World Cup year adds to that hype even more, especially with Wales being in our group.

“There are lots of great wingers at the moment in this country and to make the squad is an honour in itself and a great achievement but I want to push hard in training and make sure I start in the first team.

“If I do that then it is a case of playing as well as I can because there are a lot of other players going for that position, it is not just my position, every position is competitive.

“There are lots of great players so people who are playing need to make sure they are playing as well as they can because if not somebody else will.

“I think we are used to that pressure. Even when you are young player coming up through Gloucester you are used to competing with people for position it is just something you get used to.”

Despite the favourites tag for today’s game with Italy May is not expecting a walk in the park against an Italy side that have proven hard to beat in recent years.

“Italy are a very passionate nation and will come out with nothing to lose,” added May. “They will be physical and we have to be patient, we can’t force it, we have to play our game, work hard for the opportunities and then finish them.

“There’s pressure on every international to play as well as I can. There’s nothing different this week, I want to go out there and be better.

“I would love to get a couple of opportunities with ball in space and want to finish them but I have to go out with a clear mind and play what’s in front of me.”

Get behind the scenes news from Jonny May and his England team-mates throughout the RBS 6 Nations with O2 Inside Line.