England hooker Jamie George backs his side to bounce back against Italy in the Six Nations, insisting they did not become "a bad team overnight".

England started their campaign with a big win over Wales, but have since been defeated by Scotland and Ireland to leave them fourth in the table after three games.

They lost 42-21 to Ireland on the weekend, marking the very first time they have been beaten by 20+ points in a men's Test match at Twickenham by Ireland.

Steve Borthwick's side have also struggled defensively in the tournament compared to the likes of France and Scotland.

Of England’s 74 missed tackles in the 2026 Six Nations, 30% have come in the 10-metre channels out wide, the highest rate of any team.

However, England had won 12 consecutive Tests prior to their recent back-to-back losses, and George is confident they will return to winning ways in Italy on March 7.

"We certainly aren't a bad team overnight," said George.

30% - Of England’s 74 missed tackles in the 2026 @SixNationsRugby, 30% have come in the 10-metre channels out wide, the highest rate of any team. Outflanked.

Read more about @IrishRugby's resurgence and England's woes in our @OptaAnalyst deep dive.https://t.co/vHIInFED4A

— OptaJonny (@OptaJonny) February 24, 2026

"We aren't that far away from it. There was a snowball effect in both games because of the way we started.

"Outside of that, we've got really good players, we've got a great plan and great coaches. I've got no doubt we'll be back to where we need to be against Italy in two weeks.

"The results have not been good enough. Those last two games have been poor. To be beaten as comprehensively as we have is disappointing.

"Everything is explainable, and there are probably a sequence of errors and an inability to keep our own ball, and then that becomes really hard.

"If you are many points down and looking to score tries and not able to keep hold of the ball, then that becomes really difficult.

"To concede 40 points at home is inexcusable as well. There is a fair bit to fix, but at the same time, we feel very confident that we aren't miles away."