Jonny Wilkinson: I must rediscover instinct

Monday 22 March 2010
Published By: David Rawlings
Six Nations > England

Jonny Wilkinson's exclusion form England's starting line-up at the weekend was the wake-up call the fly-half needed, according top the man himself.

By his own admission, endless sessions on the treatment table have managed to blunt his instinct, something which crept through into his performances despite the desire to play being as strong as ever.

Wilkinson was replaced by Toby Flood for the game against the French at the Stade de France, a decision which soon proved wise after Flood landed a touchline conversion following England's (and the game's) only try.

But Wilkinson remained confident that he has a place in the side as long as his ability is there and he can be utilised by the management.

"I don't want to be playing for England if I'm not doing as good a job as someone else - if I'm not right to be there. You have to earn that right and I am in the process of doing that," he said.

Posted by David Rawlings