Ford ready to roll

George Ford: needs to be given the chance to shine

Rugby Union: 

WITH the autumn internationals about to get under way, World Cup winner Lewis Moody insists it’s time Oldham-born George Ford showed what he can do in England’s No.10 shirt.

The 21 year old has made only two appearances for his country, both off-the-bench cameos in this year’s Six Nations, before shoulder surgery ruled him out of the summer tour to New Zealand.

England head coach Stuart Lancaster has invariably opted for Owen Farrell as starting No.10 and the Saracens fly-half has yet to let him down.

But with a World Cup around the corner, Moody wants Lancaster to test his options this autumn, including giving Ford a chance to impress.

“If Owen goes down you’ve got very few guys for that position,” he said. “To see George get some opportunities to play this autumn would be good.

“The autumn is about winning, but it’s also about giving players an opportunity to play, so that when you come to the Six Nations you know what your starting team is and who you can rely on.

“I wouldn’t start Farrell against Samoa for instance — I would give Ford a chance to show what he’s got.

“The only part of George’s game you would say could be improved is his kicking, but I love the way he distributes, the way he brings others into the game and the way he communicates and leads.

“I think he’s the natural replacement for Owen if he gets injured and I would have loved to have seen George given more time on the pitch during the Six Nations.”

Ford, who played for Oldham St Anne’s, Saddleworth Rangers and Waterhead rugby league sides as a junior, and Farrell are joined in the England squad for the clashes this autumn with New Zealand, South Africa, Samoa and Australia by Northampton playmaker Stephen Myler as the three fly-halves.