Head coach Eddie Jones believes England fans don’t appreciate ‘rugby icon’ Owen Farrell as he approaches 100 caps.
Speaking after naming his 36-man squad for autumn fixtures against Argentina, Japan, New Zealand and South Africa next month, Jones refused to name his official captain with Farrell, Courtney Lawes and Tom Curry in contention..
“If we don’t have Owen then we lose a huge percentage of our fight. He’s the most energetic and one of the most committed rugby players I’ve ever seen,” Jones said.
“You know Owen is the third highest points scorer in rugby history? He’s one of the all-time greats of the game.
“We need that. But we also need someone who is also composed and speaks to the referee well. We need both.
“He’s won every trophy in the world apart from the World Cup and he’s got a silver medal, which isn’t bad. Sometimes I don’t think he gets the credit he deserves.
“Some players have that likeness. When you’re a tough, gritty player like Owen, it’s harder to be liked. That’s the reality.
“He’s combative, he’s very focused about the game and he doesn’t open himself up a lot. That’s the reality. But he’s an icon of the game here.
“He’s resurrecting Saracens now – they’re back up playing fantastic rugby. We hope we get that Owen in with all that fighting spirit for next month.”
DID YOU KNOW? Eddie Jones made three appearances for Leicester during the 1991/92 season in England.
Eddie Jones dream team:
BACK-THREE:
- 15. Freddie Steward (England)
- 14. Bryan Habana (South Africa)
- 11. Jonah Lomu (New Zealand)
CENTRES:
- 13. Stirling Mortlock (Australia)
- 12. Manu Tuilagi (England)
