Ford hitting the right notes

MIKE Brown admits George Ford’s headline grabbing performances in this year’s Six Nations have handed England head coach Stuart Lancaster a selection headache going into the World Cup.

A starter in the final two autumn internationals, Oldham-born Bath fly-half Ford was handed his opportunity in the Six Nations when Owen Farrell was ruled out with a knee injury.

And take his chance Ford did, finishing as the tournament’s top points scorer with 75 as well as gaining a nomination as Player of the Championship.

Despite only making his England senior debut in last year’s tournament, Ford has been leaving his mark on the international stage for several seasons, including becoming the first Englishman to scoop the IRB world junior player of the year award in December 2011.

The battle for the number 10 spot is as fierce as ever with Farrell returning to action soon while Sale Shark’s Danny Cipriani and Northampton Saints Stephen Myler are also pushing their case.

But Brown admits he had been left impressed by Ford’s determination to take his chance in recent weeks.

“George is a young lad but he has shown his attacking abilities and his kicking abilities,” said Brown.

“He is obviously a class player and it’s an example of competition for places.

“He was really impressive during the Six Nations and he’s great to have in the camp. You’ve really got to seize your chance when you get it and it’s great that the players like George are doing that.

With six months before the start of the World Cup, there should be plenty of twists and turns before the final England squad is named.