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Rugby Union

Vickery admits split loyalties

15/02/2007

England skipper Phil Vickery has admitted that many of his international team-mates will face a "club versus country" dilemma ahead of this weekend's Guinness Premiership matches.

By the time England arrive in Dublin to face Ireland in the Six Nations on February 24th the world champions' build-up will have been shortened by the demands of their club sides.

However, Brian O'Driscoll's men will have had two weeks to prepare and Vickery thinks this will already have the visitors on the back foot before a ball is kicked.

"I think we all understand the problems within the game, club versus country. The clubs want their players to play, of course they do," he said.

"Supporters want to see them play and I think players want to play. But at the same time we also want to do what's best for your country."

Top-flight English sides are insisting that they are entitled to use their star players and, if they do not, they might damage the reputation of the domestic game.

The issue was underlined by Newcastle Falcons boss John Fletcher's insistence today that he would have played fly-half Jonny Wilkinson in their forthcoming match against Bristol had he been fit to take the field.

Although Vickery is likely to take some part in London Wasps' clash with champions Sale, he feels he is more fortunate than most in the treatment he gets from his employers.

"I am very fortunate," he said.

"London Wasps have looked after me fantastically well. They have managed me throughout the season and there certainly wasn't an issue for me here."

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