Wilko: Becks is helping me

"He understands what's involved because he is also a team sportsman." Wilkinson, who kicked all of England's points in their 24-7 semi-final win over France, insisted he had not thought about winning the trophy.

"No, I stand by what I said before the tournament started," he said. "My mind won't let me go there and my total focus is the build-up to the first whistle of the match - not what may happen at the final whistle. It's how I deal with things and why I believe we have been successful."

He also claimed he was unaffected by the hype surrounding him that has led to 'minders' within the England camp being used to protect him from mobs of fans.

"I don't want to be put in a cocoon but I think it's nice to be able to prepare in my normal way without too many distractions," he said. "I am preparing to play for my country in a hugely important rugby match and I need to be able to do my work and be able to live the life I want to live.

"But, I realise it's also great to be out there and understand the support there is here for the team at this World Cup and that must not be forgotten."

Meanwhile, Clive Woodward hit back today at claims his team were failing the tournament by relying on Wilkinson's boot to win matches.

The head coach said: "I make no bones about that. We are not here to entertain or be popular with others. It is all about winning and Saturday night is the ultimate test. If we come off with a one point win, we will be very happy taking the trophy back to England."

Woodward also dismissed claims that he was involved in a verbal battle with Eddie Jones, the Wallaby coach. He added: "There is nothing particular between me and Eddie Jones, just the standard rivalry between two countries."