England would be foolish to underestimate Fiji, says Ben Morgan

England No 8 Ben Morgan says only a "fool" would underestimate Fiji ahead of their World Cup opener.

The tournament begins with a huge clash at Twickenham between the two sides next Friday and, despite the hosts being overwhelming favourites, Morgan knows the Fijian threat all too well.

The 26-year-old previously played with Fiji flanker Akapusi Qera at Gloucester and he expects a fierce test from the Pacific Island nation.

"Anyone would be a fool to underestimate Fiji. They have first crack at the host nation and that's why it is so very important that we get our preparation spot on," Morgan said.

"It's the opening game of the World Cup and therefore a massive spectacle in its own right. Both teams will go out knowing the world's eyes are on us, so we both face a big challenge.

"In a World Cup you sense that need to be right on it from the start because one defeat and that could be it, particularly in a group as difficult as ours.

"When Qera starts speaking, he's the sort of person you listen to. I can only imagine the sort of stuff he's saying to his squad ahead of playing England. He is a good leader.

"A lot of what he says will be emotionally-driven and, when he speaks, he has his country behind him.

"Fiji have threats all across the field, their set-piece has tightened up and they can attack from anywhere."

England name their team on Monday with Morgan set to continue in his position in what will be a third appearance since recovering from the broken ankle last January.

The star of last autumn's series at Twickenham was described by head coach Stuart Lancaster as "such a smart rugby player" after Ireland were dispatched on Sunday.

And Morgan said: "I feel ready to go. My confidence has gone right up as a result of the half I played against France and then the Ireland game. I'm confident I am back to where I was."