Johnson: Worsley in hunt for Lions

MARTIN JOHNSON believes Joe Worsley has played himself firmly into the frame for Lions selection after a series of world-class performances for England.

Worsley has been passed fit to retain his place in the England back row to face Scotland despite requiring six stitches in a deep gash to his right hand.

Fly-half Toby Flood will also start today’s Calcutta Cup showdown after overcoming a shoulder injury suffered in last week’s 34-10 win over France.

Worsley began the season outside of England’s elite squad before injuries to Tom Rees, Michael Lipman and Lewis Moody opened the door for a return.

The Wasps flanker was named man of the match for a destructive defensive performance in England’s 23-15 defeat to Wales and was equally effective against Ireland and France.

Worsley has nailed down a place in England’s starting XV, arguably for the first time in his 71-cap career, and Johnson backed his claims for a place on the Lions tour to South Africa.

“Joe has been one of our players of the tournament, if not one of the players of the tournament,” he said.

“Everyone talks about his tackling but he has also carried the ball well. His off-the-field demeanour, that quiet confidence he brings to the team, and his experience as a player at this level has been important.

“Right now he is nailed in as a starter. Joe is a world-class player when he is fit and in good form. He has really played himself in with a great chance of going on the Lions tour.”

Meanwhile Scotland lock Jim Hamilton says his country are ready to stamp out the errors that have littered their campaign. “We’re going to go out there on Saturday and give it everything we’ve got to can the errors and build towards the win that I think everyone knows we’re capable of.”

“We’re the only guys who can put us in the position to get that win. We don’t want to lose and are trying everything we can to get the win.

“This is our last opportunity to show what we can do for a while.”