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Rugby Union

Strettle gets the nod as England sweat over Robinson

22/02/2007

David Strettle has been called up to the England squad for Saturday's RBS Six Nations clash with Ireland.

The Harlequins wing could be thrown in at the deep end if Jason Robinson loses his race to be fit in time for the game.

Robinson, who scored three tries in the opening two games, injured his shoulder in training yesterday.

The England coaching staff remain hopeful that the experienced and versatile back will be in the starting line-up, but Strettle will be on the plane to Dublin just in case.

Strettle, 23, is a highly-rated wing and has put in some dazzling displays for both his club side and England A.

Robinson's absence would though be a huge blow as head coach Brian Ashton looks to get his revolution back on track.

England, thanks largely to the return of Robinson and the talismanic Jonny Wilkinson, looked more like their old selves in the RBS Six Nations opener against Scotland.

But a stuttering victory over Italy the following week brought back memories of the dire autumn Tests, which saw the world champions go on a record losing streak.

As well as doubts over Robinson's fitness, Ashton learned this week that Phil Thompson, the hugely experienced hooker, will miss the World Cup later this year.

Thompson needs an operation on a neck problem, which caused him to lose the feeling down one of his arms and could even end his career.

Ireland have had their own injury worries, with Ronan O'Gara and Peter Stringer both picking up injuries in the disappointing defeat to France.

Both O'Gara and Stringer are expected to play against England and captain Brian O'Driscoll is also set to return after missing the last game with a hamstring strain.

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