Carter upbeat over fitness

New Zealand fly-half Dan Carter is confident he will be fit for Saturday's clash with England at Twickenham.

Dan Carter is 'pretty confident' he will be fit to take on England [PA]

Carter missed last Saturday's 33-10 victory over Wales with Achilles and calf problems, but expects to return for the All Blacks' final match of the year.

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"Hopefully I'll be ready, nothing's changed over the last couple of days," he said.

"The plan was to get through training and it was pretty light today, I didn't go over 50%. I got through it well. We're looking after it well and doing everything right to be ready for this weekend.

"I'm pretty confident I'll be right to play, I just need some positive thinking. It's the last game of the year and I want to be part of it."

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Since losing 15-13 in Wellington nine years ago to Sir Clive Woodward's team - who went on to lift the World Cup - the All Blacks have won all nine meetings between the rivals.

And Carter added: "Yes I'm surprised England haven't done more since 2003. They've shown the strength of their side only in patches since then.

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"Maybe consistency is what's been lacking. They've got the players, so talent's not an issue. They can beat any side on their day.

"It was in 2003 that I got the All Black jersey for the first time, though unfortunately I didn't get the chance to get on.

"England were in their prime and had a pretty successful year. They taught us a lesson at home. We have real pride in not losing at home and they took it to us that night."

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