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Rugby Union

Wilkinson praise for Strettle

27/02/2007

England newcomer David Strettle has been praised by Jonny Wilkinson for the role he played for the side in their humiliating 43-13 defeat to Ireland in the Six Nations on Saturday.

The Harlequins youngster was one of only a handful of players to emerge from the weekend's record loss with any semblance of pride after his try-scoring debut at Croke Park.

And Wilkinson has been quick to single out the 23-year-old after he was thrown into the side at the last minute when first-choice winger Jason Robinson failed to recover from injury in time.

"He came under a lot of pressure with just two days to prepare for one of the biggest occasions that he will face and he did very well," said Wilkinson.

"It's great he has kicked off his England career.

"I am sure he will have a long and successful one after a great debut."

England's record points scorer Wilkinson said Strettle had been "lighting up the Guinness Premiership" all season, describing his pace and running ability as "a massive threat".

The winger's performance on Saturday could ensure that he keeps his place in the next England XV for the visit of France to Twickenham, despite the fact that Robinson is expected to recover from his neck injury by March 11th.

Injury concerns over Olly Morgan could mean he is dropped, allowing England coach Brian Ashton to move Josh Lewsey to his favoured position of full-back and Robinson and Strettle taking up their positions on the wings.

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