Robinson picks out Ashton to boost England
CHRIS Ashton can still light up England’s attack this autumn and force his way into Eddie Jones’ World Cup plans, according to Jason Robinson.
The Sale Sharks flyer is back in the England squad for the first time in four years, having been promoted to the bench for today’s opening autumn Test against South Africa following injury to Manu Tuilagi yesterday.
An embarrassing fifth-place finish in the Six Nations was followed by a summer defeat to South Africa for England, and Jones is under pressure to turn things around.
England have a wealth of options available to them on the wing, and Ashton has lost out in the starting line-up today to Jonny May and Jack Nowell.
But former Sale ace Robinson, who won the World Cup with England in 2003, insists Ashton can make an immediate impact when he does get his chance.
“We know what Chris is about and I am sure he will fit seamlessly back into the squad,” he said.
“He has such great attributes, raw ability but now he can mix that with experience. He will be a senior voice in that dressing room.
“It is just a shame that he has had a slow start to the season because of the ban but he is a tryscorer, there is no doubt about that.
“England’s midfield is inventive and Ashton is still one of the best try-scorers around, there is no doubt about that – so he will licking his lips.
“He could be a big addition heading into the World Cup year. He is a special talent and it is exciting to see him back in the fold.”
With the 2019 World Cup in Japan now less than 12 months away, the scramble is on for a place in Jones’ final squad.
Injuries have played their part, especially in the forwards, and Robinson insists they have a tough autumn ahead.
New Zealand, Japan and Australia also visit Twickenham but the former full-back believes results do not matter – it’s all about performances.
“Their confidence looked so low in the Six Nations so now it is all about building that back up and regaining that swagger,” said Robinson. “They can do it. You don’t become a bad team over night and there is no doubt Eddie Jones will have them fired up.”
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