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World Cup-winning England coach Sir Clive Woodward is backing Sam Burgess to make a rapid transition to rugby union and secure a place in England’s World Cup squad.
The former NRL superstar will make his full debut in only his third appearance for Bath in Friday’s European clash with Montpellier at the Recreation Ground.
Debate has raged over whether he can learn the new code in time to be unleashed for England, with head coach Stuart Lancaster viewing the second-string Saxons game against the Irish Wolfhounds on January 30 as a possible first international outing.
But Woodward, the mastermind of the 2003 World Cup triumph over the Wallabies, is convinced the 25-year-old can make an impact, saying he has an “outstanding chance” of making the squad.
“He’s a great footballer, so there’s no logical reason why he shouldn’t play and it will be fun finding out what happens,” Woodward told PA.
“Burgess is looking at inside centre which is one of the toughest positions to play in terms of understanding the game.
“He’s the number one rugby league player in the world and when a player of that stature comes over to union, you have to be excited by it.
“I’m sure he’ll be loving the attention. He’s under a lot of pressure because everyone will be watching him. It’s great for rugby union.”
England are hoping Burgess will solve their midfield conundrum as Kyle Eastmond, Owen Farrell and Billy Twelvetrees have failed to nail down the inside centre position.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.