AL KELLOCK is banking on a Warrior spirit to haul Scotland out of the Six Nations doldrums.

The Scots were left reeling by their 38-18 mauling to England in the Calcutta Cup championship opener – their 11th tournament loss on the spin.

And this Saturday they face shock troops Italy at Murrayfield who stunned France 23-18 at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday.

But Kellock is hoping the 19 Glasgow boys in Scott Johnson's squad can rally the team to a winning Italian job.

He said: "I think it is a plus that there are so many Glasgow boys in the squad.

"We have been through some disappointing losses this season, but we have always bounced back and shown real character in the process. So we know what is required and hopefully that can help.

"We need to show character and the great thing for us is we now have three home games on the bounce, starting with the Italy game followed by Ireland and Wales.

"We know the Italians will becoming here on a real high but we are absolutely determined to provide a winning response.

"We have to accept that England are a very good team and that on the day they were better than us but there were positives to take.

"So we move on now and all our focus is on getting that win against Italy."

The Glasgow skipper was a second-half substitute for Jim Hamilton and admitted he is desperate to start against Jacques Brunel's boys.

Kellock said: "It is about doing everything you can to try and get that start and to use the competition for places as a positive motivating factor."

The Scotland second row also admitted the presence of English forwards coach Dean Ryan is something he views as a huge plus.

He added: "Even at this stage in my career I believe I can still improve facets of my game and it is great to be working with a new coach who has fresh ideas.

"The Italian pack is one of the most brutal in the international game and Dean's presence and knowledge will be vital to them.

"But the bottom line is that this game is all about getting the win. Nothing else matters."