Martin Johnson: Dropping Borthwick was toughest call

02/07/2010

Steve Borthwick's chances of playing in the Investec Internationals

Despite being England coach Martin Johnson's favoured captain, there was no place for Borthwick in the 32-man elite players squad, which means the 30-year-old will instead have to cope with a berth in the Saxons ranks.

Johnson revealed that the shock decision had been a tough one to make, given his contribution to the side in recent times.

"He's done a fantastic job for England over the last couple of years and it's the most difficult call we've had to make," he commented.

The England boss went on to state the move was an indication of the strength in depth which he is currently able to call on at lock, with the likes of Tom Palmer, Dave Atwood and Courtney Lawes all in line for a place in the Investec Internationals

Borthwick has been capped 57 times by the national side and led the team for the 21st time against Scotland in the 2010 Six Nations.

Posted by Sam SmithADNFCR-2911-ID-19871463-ADNFCR

Sign up to receive the latest events and sports news

Archive