Newcastle Falcons player Ben Redshaw is enjoying the experience of a lifetime after being drafted in to train with England's Rugby World Cup squad.
The 18-year-old is spending this week training with England at Le Touquet in northern France, helping their preparations for Saturday's opening game against Argentina.
England Under-18s captain Redshaw was capped a year young by England Under-19s last season, and plays full-back or centre.
The West Park Leeds product is in his first season in the Falcons' senior academy having completed his studies at Sedbergh School, and scored a try in the club's recent 'True North Origin' game at Kingston Park.
Newcastle Falcons head coach Alex Codling said: "England's team management contacted us about how we could help them prepare for Saturday's game against Argentina, and this is a great opportunity for Ben.
"He's a very talented young player and will benefit hugely from being in that environment for a week over in France.
"It's a great life experience and learning opportunity for him, and we as a club are very keen to have those connections with the national team set-up."
Sam Warburton makes FOUR bold World Cup predictions
Former Wales and Lions captain Sam Warburton has made four bold predictions for the fast approaching 2023 World Cup, including who'll win the whole thing.
#1. World Cup winner
Warburton wrote: "France. It will take a mammoth performance to beat them on home soil in what will be a carnival-like experience every game that they play."
#2. Who will make the semi-finals
Warburton said: "England vs France and Argentina vs Ireland.
"Semi-final will be a minimum exception (for England) from this new squad and coaches. Third place and above will be a success."
#3. Player of the tournament
Warburton said: Ardie Savea. He would have been my world player of the year for 20222 and has become a pivotal figure for the All Blacks since his debut in 2016."
#4. Breakout star
Warburton wrote: "Apologies for the Welsh bias but where a lot of other teams have stable squads and will tinker very little, Mason Grady could have a real impact at centre or on the wing for Warren Gatland's side."
