Howley backs power and pace of Lions
ROB Howley will soon have to make his mind up about backline selection ahead of the series but he is very excited about a “mouth-watering” squad that combines power and pace.
“The selection is mouthwatering in terms of its quality,” the Lions backs coach said. “The combination of pace and power means we can play in different ways. We need to do that, change our game up in New Zealand.
“There is experience in there as well. There are eight backs who went on the last tour and you need experience in New Zealand.
“Ireland beating them in Chicago is a key moment in time. There will be people on the flight knowing they have beaten the All Blacks and that’s vital in terms of self-belief and confidence.
“In the centre we have speed, power and pace with guys like Jared Payne and Jonathan Joseph. I’m disappointed for Scott Williams, he played well in the Six Nations but that’s the challenge for us as coaches – to see which players can go to the next level.
“Jared played with Robbie Henshaw in the games I’ve mentioned and we feel that partnership is a good one which can help bring the best out of the players around them.”
The other surprise call in the backline was Ben Te’o but Howley was impressed with the England centre in the Six Nations. He said: “Primarily in the Championship he’s come on as an impact player and he’s certainly a game changer. He’s made things happen when he’s come on.
“I know he can play 13, but for me he’s more of a 12. There’s a lot of power and pace there over his first five metres. I watched him for Worcester against Bath. He’s very skilful, got a lovely offload and has a point of difference to his game. I think that was a key ingredient in his selection.
“When you look at him next to someone like Joseph, Payne or Jonathan Davies, you never quite know what level they can go to. That’s exciting in terms of the combinations we might see.”