Carter upbeat over fitness

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

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.

"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."

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.

"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."