New Zealand captain Richie McCaw believes the mounting criticism England are facing will provoke a fierce reaction from them at Twickenham on Saturday.

England's players and coaching staff have been slammed following their substandard displays against Australia and Argentina this month.

Many are predicting a full-strength All Blacks side are certain to pile further agony on Martin Johnson's men but McCaw is more cautious.

"What's been written about them is likely to load their gun," said the flanker. "I know what it's like when that happens and it'll bring out the best in them.

"Knowing what kind of guys they are, they are proud men and will want to go out and put a performance together. It's never easy to win at Twickenham."

History suggests otherwise, with the All Blacks thrashing England 32-6 there last autumn.

The hosts' fortunes do not appear to have improved since then and they were booed by their own fans during the laboured 16-9 victory over Argentina last Saturday.

McCaw, however, fears England are due a good performance.

"It's almost there, but not quite," he added. "You try a few things, they don't come off and the pressure builds.

"But it can be blown out of proportion as well. They have still done some pretty good things as well out there."

McCaw goes head to head on Saturday with fellow No7 Lewis Moody, who has been England's best player this month.

It will be a key confrontation and the All Blacks skipper has the utmost respect for the player nicknamed Mad Dog.

"I think the energy he brings to games is brilliant," McCaw said. "He has no care for his body at all. He likes throwing himself into everything, and the last couple of weeks he has done that.

"I expect nothing different on Saturday. I have a lot of respect for how he plays."