Robinson gambles on untested Farrell

ANDY FARRELL remains part of England’s World Cup plans despite not having played a single game of competitive rugby union since his expensive cross-code switch to Saracens over a year ago.

Farrell, the former Great Britain rugby league captain, has been included alongside the fit-again Jonny Wilkinson in England’s 55-man elite squad for the coming season.

Farrell signed from Wigan while recovering from knee surgery and he went on to miss all of last season after suffering toe and then back injuries.

No-one even seems quite certain where his best position is on a rugby union field, with blind-side flanker, number eight and inside centre all mooted as possibilities.

But Farrell’s Saracens team-mates talk enthusiastically about the impact he has made behind the scenes since joining the club — and Robinson hopes to tap into that experience.

England have lost five Tests on the spin and face a daunting autumn programme, which starts on November 5 against New Zealand. They are in desperate need of some fresh impetus.

The 40-man senior England squad is relatively short of new faces and Robinson will be looking towards Farrell and Wilkinson to help shake things up.

Wilkinson has not played for England in nearly three years, since his drop goal in Sydney sealed victory at the 2003 World Cup.

But after overcoming neck, bicep, appendix, knee and groin problems he is back in full training with Newcastle and will be ready for the start of the new season.

“I would like to welcome back Jonny Wilkinson. Everyone hopes that he has put his injuries behind him and is able to play regularly for Newcastle Falcons,” said Robinson.

“I am very excited about this new Elite Player Squad which faces a challenging year ahead leading into the 2007 Rugby World Cup,” said Robinson.