goodNumber10
International
By taking up experience then not being here for the World Cup. Could have given so many other people caps etc. He's cost England that way.
that's a fair point
By taking up experience then not being here for the World Cup. Could have given so many other people caps etc. He's cost England that way.
Right but when has he cost England on the field with discipline? Like he doesn't give away many penalties, rarely carded for England.
Hartley has been an excellent England player, anyone who disputes that is frankly a bit simple.
If Steve Thompson kills you for that, it will be thoroughly deserved.
:lol:
I thought it was two Lions tours?
Much like Hartley himself then.
Probably from too many knocks to the head...
Also to those doubting Steve:
Off the top of my head, he was yellow carded against South Africa in the 2014 Autumn Internationals- SA scored from a maul while he was off, and England went on to lose by 2 points or so. I imagine there have been other times too.
This afternoon's performance epitomises the frustration of why Wade isn't a regular starter.
Come on, it was a pretty dumb mistake, but it wasn't as if he was showboating or doing anything differently to how any other winger would have placed the ball- it was just unlucky. And considering he also scored three tries, set up at least one more, I think that if that's all we have against him, then he's totally outweighed that with positives. His defence for example- he kept Monye in check the entire game- has improved too.Him dropping the ball over the line exemplifies why he isn't ready to play IMO. He takes his talent for granted, and shouldn't be making mistakes like that whatever the opposition.
He is, however, the most talented winger in England. Just isn't quite where he needs to be yet.
I've also been a little sceptical of him throughout the season. His individual brilliance and teamwork are there, just not sure whether he is a grafter. I think that'd get found out internationally. Having said that, better having someone with that magic given a shot instead of some wingers who are very tried and tested underperformers.
There is absolutely no reason why you would have Strettle in the training squad over Wade . Strettle is 31 and going to France next year (supposedly) Wade is 23 ?
I think Slade should get a chance alongside Joseph. It may seem slightly lightweight, but I think if it works, the balance in the England squad will be very good.
It's a pretty obvious thing to trial at some point, I'd agree, and I think Slade playing there today show's he is thinking about it. Rejigging from a big man at 12 might be beyond Lancaster though.