IT doesn’t matter whether England drop Jonny Wilkinson or not, they’ve still got no chance of beating France in Paris on Saturday night.

At least that is the view of Les Bleus centre Mathieu Bastareaud ahead of the clash which could see France land the Grand Slam for the first time since 2004.

England yesterday binned favourite son Jonny Wilkinson, who came in for severe criticism after last week’s 15-15 draw with Scotland, as they look to restore some pride after a poor Six Nations campaign.

But, while admitting England will put up a fight, Bastareaud, who has been drafted into the starting XV for France, insists Marc Lievremont’s side will have enough to claim victory.

“We (both teams) are not there to be affectionate to each other on the pitch!” said Bastareaud.

“It is France versus England, we are playing for the tournament, and the English for self respect after being heavily criticised.

“If they can stop us from winning the Grand Slam then they will do anything to do so. We are going to prepare for this match in a serious manner. We are expecting a huge physical battle.

“It is imperative that we stick to our gameplan. Of course they will take us on in the physical areas but we have largely the means to reply to them effectively.”

Ireland captain Brian O’Driscoll insists his side cannot be disappointed if they ‘only’ end up with the Triple Crown.

Victory over Scotland at Croke Park on Saturday will give the Irish a fifth clean sweep of the home nations in seven years.

The can still win the championship but they need England to beat France and somehow overcome a 50-point difference.

The Triple Crown seems the more likely outcome, and O’Driscoll said: “The goal is to win silverware. If you can win the championship, the Triple Crown is the next best thing.”