The New Look England
Martin Johnson has selected people of ‘good character’ for his first elite player squad. And of course, they’re all supremely talented players. He has selected a blend of youth and experience, and a squad of enormous potential. New faces amongst the forwards, such as London Irish lock Nick Kennedy and Northampton hooker Dylan Hartley, bring with them enthusiasm and courage and they will be well supported by the likes of the experienced duo Simon Shaw and George Chuter, both of whom played with Johnson. In the backs Riki Flutey, a New Zealander who represented the ‘Baby Blacks’ at under 19 level, stands out as an exciting selction, whilst another player of promise is London Irish’s stylish centre Shane Geraghty, who can also cover at fly-half. However, Johnson has also shown his ruthless streak. In dropping his fellow World Cup winners Mike Tindall, Joe Worsley and Ben Kay, he has sent a powerful message to the rest of the squad. Simply put, he expects excellence as standard.