Autumn internationals news: Genia rates Wilkinson as 'one of the best'

08/06/2010

Jonny Wilkinson could still emerge as England's first-choice fly-half for the autumn internationals.

The 31-year-old is part of Martin Johnson's side's current tour of Australia and New Zealand and despite the rivalry which exists between the Aussies and the Poms, Will Genia has said he thinks Wilkinson is good enough to improve any team.

Back in 2003, Wilkinson landed the drop goal which saw off the Wallabies in the final of the World Cup and Australia scrum-half Genia believes the stand-off is still a special player, even comparing him to New Zealand star Dan Carter.

"Any side he plays in they play better so I definitely still rate him up there as one of the best," the Queensland Reds player was quoted by AAP as saying. "He directs the team around on the field really well with his passing and kicking game."

Despite the backing of Genia, Wilkinson faces stiff competition from the likes of Charlie Hodgson and Toby Flood for a place in the autumn internationals starting line-up.

Posted by Sandie Banwait