sport news George Ford insists there's more to come from England despite loss of Owen ... trends now
View
comments
George Ford insists there’s more to come from England in the post Owen Farrell era as the Sale No 10 plans a strong end to the season with club and country.
Former Test captain Farrell stepped away from international rugby at the start of the year for mental health reasons and is now ineligible for Steve Borthwick’s side after signing for French side Racing 92 for the 2024/25 campaign.
Ford took over as playmaker for England’s Six Nations which finished with impressive performances in a win over champions Ireland and a narrow defeat to France.
The 31-year-old, who is a close friend of Farrell’s, will likely be a central figure for England again this summer when they face Japan and travel to New Zealand for a mouthwatering two-Test series.
‘Obviously it was going to be different without Owen,’ Ford said. ‘He’s been a big part of the England team and the captain and leader for many years.
‘The key for us was probably not to make it the same as when he was there because I don’t think anyone can replicate what Owen does.
George Ford (L) is a close friend of Owen Farrell (R), who has stepped away from Test rugby
‘In terms of results and performances, the Six Nations probably got stronger as the tournament went on. Even though we lost the last game, I thought the performance was still very good. I know everybody wants things immediately but building a team and a way of playing does take a little bit of time sometimes.
‘We played some good stuff in the last two games. But I’m proud with a young team, which has changed vastly from the World Cup, that we found a way to win in the first couple of games.
‘The middle game against Scotland was
