Marseille clash the ultimate test for English, says Vickery

ENGLAND captain Phil Vickery has labelled tonight’s final World Cup warm-up match against France as “the ultimate test” for his players.

Only Argentina have ever beaten France at the imposing Stade Velodrome — a ground where the 2007 World Cup hosts’ previous victims include England, New Zealand, South Africa and Australia.

England’s degree of difficulty is compounded by their dismal away form since Martin Johnson held aloft the Webb Ellis Trophy almost four years ago.