"I love playing" - Owen Farrell issues statement on his England future

Rugby News
Wednesday, 20 March 2024 at 18:38
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Former England captain Owen Farrell says he does not know what the future brings regarding International Rugby and is just focussed on his move to Racing 92 in the summer.
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Asked about a potential future Saracens and even England return, Farrell replied: “I’ve not said anything, I don’t know.
“I’ve stepped back and there’s obviously a change happening next year. Then we’ll see.
“There’s no point in saying anything now because I don’t know how I’m going to feel later down the line. We’ll see.”
Reflecting on a World Cup where England finished third, he said: "Obviously the World Cup was difficult at times but I really enjoyed the playing side of it and being involved.
"I want to play for as long as I possibly can as long as I am enjoying it.
"I love playing. That's always been the case, even during the tougher bits as I've spoken about.
"I loved the game, and I loved the rugby. I want to enjoy all of it a bit more.
"I've been getting back to doing it here at the club, I've done that over this time during the Six Nations, and I want to really do that towards the end of the year. And then I want to get better at it next year as well.
"That's how I think I am going to get the best out of myself and play my best. We'll see what happens."

players

Telegraph Sport conducted a thorough assessment of each England player's performance during the Six Nations, with criticism aimed at several individuals.
One player was labeled a liability, while another is advised to come to terms with the idea that their peak playing days may be behind them.

5 players who underperformed:

#5. Alex Coles - 6/10

Coles is a member of the Premiership outfit Northampton Saints, a club he has been associated with since the age of 13. His journey with the Saints began when he joined their senior academy in the summer of 2017, eventually making his senior debut in November of the following year.
With versatility spanning across the second and back rows, Coles has represented his country from U16 level all the way through to U20, featuring prominently in the U20 Six Nations and the World Rugby U20 Championship.
His impressive performances earned him a call-up to the England senior Men’s squad ahead of the 2022 Autumn Nations Series, where he marked his debut in their narrow 30-29 defeat against Argentina.
They wrote: "A cumulative 15 minutes of action, but it is telling that England opted for no lock replacement in their final two matches."
RUCK RATING: 6.25/10

#4. Will Stuart - 6/10

Stuart, a native of London, received his education at Farleigh School in Andover and later attended Radley College in Oxfordshire. His rugby journey commenced at the age of eight, where he honed his skills both at school and with Salisbury RFC.
Stuart's prowess on the field earned him representation for England at various age grade levels, notably contributing to the team's triumph over Ireland in the final of the 2016 World Rugby U20 Championship. His ascent continued when he received his first call-up to the senior squad in 2020, debuting as a replacement for Kyle Sinckler during the opening round of the Six Nations. Subsequently, he earned his maiden start in November of the same year, featuring in England’s Autumn Nations Cup clash against Georgia.
In 2023, Stuart was a pivotal member of Steve Borthwick’s squad that journeyed to France for the Rugby World Cup, further solidifying his status as a promising talent in English rugby.
They wrote: "Made the bench spot his own but has never quite translated his Bath form to Tests. New Zealand could be make or break."
RUCK RATING: 5.2/10
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Will Stuart of England during the England Captains Run at Twickenham Stadium, London on 9 February 2024 (Photo: George Beck/PPAUK)

#3. Danny Care - 6/10

Care's illustrious international journey commenced in 2008 with his England debut against New Zealand, marking the beginning of a remarkable career that has seen him amass over 100 caps for his country.
Originating from Leeds, Care initially ventured into rugby before transitioning to Harlequins in 2006, where he continued to flourish. His commitment to the sport has seen him represent England across nine levels, spanning from the grassroots through to the elite ranks, including a notable stint in the sevens code. Notably, he clinched a Commonwealth Games silver medal during his tenure in sevens, further adding to his diverse and distinguished rugby resume.
They wrote: "Murrayfield hinted that Care’s best days as an England starter might be over but his composure off the bench deserves plaudits."
RUCK RATING: 6.1/10

#2. Fraser Dingwall - 6/10

Dingwall's rugby journey began at Cambridge RUFC, where he first honed his skills before catching the eye of Northampton Saints at the age of 14. His talent and dedication led him to sign with the Senior Academy in 2017.
The pinnacle of Dingwall's professional career arrived when he made his debut in a Premiership fixture against Leicester Tigers in 2018, marking a significant milestone in his journey.
Internationally, Dingwall initially represented Scotland at the U18 level before switching allegiance to England U20s in 2018. His leadership qualities shone through when he was appointed captain of the England squad for the 2019 World Rugby U20 Championship.
Dingwall's progression continued as he earned his first call-up to the senior England squad in January 2020, signifying a notable achievement in his burgeoning career. Recently, head coach Steve Borthwick recognised Dingwall's capabilities once again, recalling him ahead of the Guinness Men’s Six Nations 2024 campaign.
They wrote: "At times a liability, is it time for England to move on? Perhaps, but Daly’s aerial prowess is unquestionable."
RUCK RATING: 6.25/10

#1. Elliot Daly - 6/10

Daly's ascent to the England squad for the 2016 Six Nations was propelled by his standout performances in high-stakes encounters, coupled with impressive seasons at Wasps.
His debut as a starter for England saw him making a memorable impact with a remarkable left-footed penalty against South Africa in November 2016, followed by his maiden Test try against Fiji the following week.
Daly's journey continued to flourish as he earned selection for the 2017 British & Irish Lions tour to New Zealand, where he featured prominently, starting all three Tests on the left wing against the formidable All Blacks.
He further solidified his place in English rugby history as part of the squad that reached the final of the 2019 Rugby World Cup. Daly's prowess on the field earned him a spot in the 2021 Lions tour to South Africa, where he showcased his skills in the first two Tests.
Having been part of the England squad for the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France, Daly's talent was once again recognized as he was recalled by Steve Borthwick ahead of the Guinness Men’s Six Nations 2024 campaign.
They wrote: "At times a liability, is it time for England to move on? Perhaps, but Daly’s aerial prowess is unquestionable."
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