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When last year’s Rugby League World Cup concluded I thought England would be a force for years to come. Sure, the loss of Sam Burgess is a huge blow but I believe he will be back in a couple years.
Even if he doesn’t return, there are still his twin brothers to call upon who look to be developing into fully fledged stars of their own.
The retirement of Kevin Sinfield is also a big loss to English rugby league but I think that this, along with the fact that its the year after a home world cup, presents them with the perfect opportunity to rebuild for a golden future.
With that in mind, Here is the 23-man squad I would select for the upcoming Four Nations tournament.
1.Sam Tomkins (age 25)
Took a while to find his feet in the NRL but really began to show his class over the back half of the season. I think his time in Australia can only help his International game as well. He’s one of the best fullbacks in the game and provides England with a lot of x-factor
2.Josh Charnley (age 23)
A clinical finisher who is one of the most prolific try scorers in Super League history. Has also carried that form over to the English team, scoring seven tries from four appearances.
3.Leroy Cudjoe (age 26)
Is coming to that age where most rugby league players begin to hit their peak. He possesses explosive speed and good foot work. Has assisted a big number of tries this season while also scoring seven of his own. Deserves his spot.
4.Kallum Watkins (age 23)
Has really come of age over the last 18 months and developed into a world-class centre. Easily Englands first choice in this position.
5.Ryan Hall (age 26)
Is regarded by many as the world’s best winger. He caused a lot of problems for teams at last year’s World Cup including the Kangaroos and Kiwis. An automatic selection.
6.Gareth Widdop (age 25)
Has gone to another level since leaving the shadows of playing at the Melbourne Storm for more of a spotlight role at the Dragons. He was one of the early leader’s for the NRL’s Dally M award and has consistently performed at a high level throughout the year. Will be a massive part of Englands future.
7.Marc Sneyd (age 23)
With the retirement of Sinfield I think England should select a young, genuine halfback who could develop into a leader of their national team. Is the major influence behind Castlefords successful 2014 campaign and for me, Sneyd edges out the 27-year-old Matty Smith.
8.Chris Hill (age 26)
Has arguably been Super League’s best prop this season along with a resurgent Jamie Peacock. Works hard and regularly bends defensive lines with his carries. Will add a lot to a potentially dominant English pack.
9.James Roby (age 28)
Will be one of the veterans and leaders of the national team. The 2007 Man of Steel award winner, the youngest ever to win the prestigious award, is a truly world class rake who works harder than most.
10.James Graham (age 29 and captain)
He is without doubt the best prop in the world at the moment. Was one of the youngest-ever English captains back in 2010 and I now think he is ready to make that role his own, despite playing his club footy in Australia. I genuinely think he could lead England to a Four Nations or World Cup trophy.
11.Brett Ferres (age 28)
After a stand out season last year which culminated in selection for England’s World Cup squad, where he was one of their top performers. He has carried that form into this year and possibly even gone up another gear.
12.Joe Westerman (age 24)
A big talented back rower who has been on the brink of a international call-up for a while, I think his time for that could be now.
13.Sean O’Loughlin (age 31)
Would be the oldest player in my squad and a key member of the leadership group. One of the best defenders in the Super League his work rate is as good as you will see anywhere.
14.Darryl Clark (age 21)
Has established himself as a future star this season, emphasised by the fact that he is now one of the front runners for this year’s Man of Steel award. He is also a big part of the Tigers’ rise.
15.Carl Ablett (age 28)
A versatile player who is equally capable in the centres as he is in the back row. I think he brings a lot of impact off the bench.
16.George Burgess (age 22)
A beast of a player from that famous family. He has established himself as a starting front rower at the Rabbitohs this season but I still believe he is best utilised as an impact player.
17.Tom Burgess (age 22)
George’s identical brother has always been considered a bit off the mark when compared to Luke, Sam and George. That was until 2014. He has real;y come of age and is arguably playing better than his twin at the moment.
Other members: Zak Hardaker (age 22), Matty Smith (age 27), Michael McIllorum (age 26), Liam Farrell (age 24), Scott Taylor (age 23)
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