ENGLAND have been hit with a string of World Cup setbacks but Wales captain Sam Warburton still expects to lead his side out against one of the most complete teams in the tournament, writes Paddy von Behr.

Stuart Lancaster's preparations have not been smooth with Manu Tuilagi and Dylan Hartley already ruled out for disciplinary reasons as the England head coach prepares to whittle his World Cup squad down to 31.

They will face Wales, Australia, Fiji and Uruguay in a tricky pool with the top two progressing to the knockout stages, well aware that any slip-ups could see the Red Rose fall at the first hurdle.

However, Warburton is adamant that England – who beat his side at the Millennium Stadium back in February – will not be significantly weakened by their absences.

"We have experienced setbacks in terms of players getting injured – it's just the way it is and I think it's something every team has to deal with," he said.

"I have played against England maybe five times now and I am aware of what they are capable of doing and not capable of doing, as I am sure they are with us.

"I don't believe they are the ten-man side that a lot of ill-advised fans will have you believe. We have got to cover all facets of the game to beat a top England team."

Meanwhile, the openside flanker is relishing another head-to-head battle with opposite number Chris Robshaw at the home of rugby in September.

"When it comes to international level, now and then they sometimes pinpoint the sevens to be a crucial one-on-one battle but every game you play now it is going to be a key battle," Warburton added.

"I have a massive amount of respect for Chris and he fully deserves the captaincy and what comes with it. Hopefully I will make the team and I can play at Twickenham against him."

Wales open their tournament against Uruguay in Cardiff on Sunday, September 20 before their date with England at Twickenham on the Saturday.

- Sam Warburton is a Land Rover ambassador. Land Rover, a Worldwide Partner of Rugby World Cup 2015, will be recruiting two official Rugby World Cup 2015 mascots at a beach rugby festival on Barry Island on Saturday, July 4. Follow @LandRoverRugby #WeDealInReal