The 5 most exciting England youngsters in 2010: What happened next? - Page 2 of 5 - Ruck

The 5 most exciting England youngsters in 2010: What happened next?

2. Alex Goode

What they said then: It is a question of when, not if, Goode plays for England. That, at least, is the firm view of Brendan Venter, his director of rugby at Saracens. As a schoolboy, the talented Goode competed in national schools athletics finals, played county tennis and was part of Ipswich Town’s academy.

What they’ve done since: The full-back, who can also ply his trade at fly-half, earned international recognition with England in 2012, making his Test debut against South Africa and has gone on to earn 21 caps and represent the Barbarians.

Named Premiership Rugby Player of the Season in 2015/16, Goode excelled in 2018/19 as Saracens won the double and was recognised for his displays by being voted European Player of the Year. Still at Sarries, the only slight blot on his report card would be never really establishing himself with England despite his stellar career.

Grade: B+

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