The Expert's View
A former England international and World Cup Sevens winner, Damian Hopley, Chief Executive of the Professional Rugby Players Association, looks forward to what promises to be an exciting season of international rugby.
As we head into the new season there’s a real buzz around the England side. An impressive, young squad has been named for the autumn internationals and there is a real desire, amongst both the players currently involved within the England set-up and those looking to break into the side, to work with Martin Johnson. To my mind, the signing of new attack coach Brian Smith was a key one for the RFU and I think he will bring an edge to the side that has been missing in recent times. As for the brand of rugby Martin Johnson is looking to play, I believe pragmatism will be at the forefront of his plans. He is someone who brings a ‘win at all costs’ attitude to the table, and will just be focusing on getting England back to the top of the tree.
Looking back at the summer tours, the likes of James Haskell, Luke Narraway and Tom Rees really came of age. And looking forward, the likes of Danny Care, Danny Cipriani and Mathew Tait will be looking to make their mark on the side. Then there are the more experienced players who will be targeting big seasons. For me, James Simpson-Daniel, who’s been so unlucky with injury, is one of the most exciting players around and then there’s Josh Lewsey and, of course, Jonny Wilkinson who still have a lot to offer. Looking at players coming into the England set-up, I can see Riki Flutey making a name for himself this year. He’s a talented all-round player and he would have no problems slotting into England’s midfield. In the forwards, Nick Kennedy will be looking to build on a strong year with London Irish and stake a claim for a Test spot. The talent’s there to build a formidable side that can combine the traditionally strong forward efforts of England teams with some exciting back play.
England fans have been treated to some great rugby over the last four or five years and expectations, as ever, are high as we begin another season. The RFU has made it clear that that the straightforward aim is to win every game, so they are clearly setting their stall out to push for success, and knowing Martin Johnson, his aims will be no different. As for the 6 Nations, England and France traditionally start as favourites but I think Ireland and Wales will have something to say about that, and with England and Ireland both having coaches in the infancy of their careers, there’ll be an extra edge to this year’s tournament. All in all, there is a real sense of optimism surrounding the England side at the moment. With a natural winner like Martin Johnson at the helm, I firmly believe the sky is the limit for this group of players and with some quality opposition lined up over the next few months we could be in for a great season.