Brian Ashton has pinned his faith in Mark Cueto as the tries to create a piece of World Cup history by helping England become the first side to retain the Webb Ellis trophy.

With World Cup-winner Josh Lewsey out of the showdown against South Africa through injury, coach Ashton has recalled wing specialist Cueto rather than switch centre Mathew Tait to the wing and bring in Leicester's Dan Hipkiss at centre.

Cueto has struggled with a calf problem in recent weeks, but England officials insist the Sale winger is fit.

With everything going Ashton's way in recent weeks following the miserable start to England's World Cup campaign, the chances are he will have made the right call.

Four weeks ago England drifted to 50/1 outsiders after being thumped 36-0 by South Africa in the pool stages - the Springboks' fourth straight victory over them.

But, since that day, Ashton's men have developed a steely determination not to be beaten.

"We were bitterly disappointed with our performance that day, but since then there have been a huge amount of changes," said skipper Vickery.

"South Africa are a fantastic side, but this is a one-off game and anything can happen."

Lewsey rates South Africa as favourites - but hopes England have built a momentum that will carry them to an historic victory.

No team has ever successfully defended the World Cup.

"We have a lot of gnarly old battle-horses," he said.

"They are proven performers on the big stage."