Woodward backed to name attacking squad

Former British & Irish Lion Ieuan Evans believes Sir Clive Woodward will name a squad capable of attacking New Zealand in every way possible this summer. [more]

Lions Australia Tour 2013

Former British & Irish Lion Ieuan Evans believes Sir Clive Woodward will name a squad capable of attacking New Zealand in every way possible this summer.

Woodward will name his 44-man party for the trip on Monday and Evans, who toured three times with the Lions, is confident it will be a versatile group.

He said: "You have got to adapt and I think the big thing on this tour is that the Lions can play all manner of rugby. They can adapt to the circumstances, adapt to the environment and particularly in New Zealand, adapt to the weather.

"We have to take a physical, robust, dynamic pack of forwards but we can also take some of the world’s best backs.

"So if the Lions want to play fast and loose, they can play fast and loose. If they want to play attacking rugby, they can do that. If they want to play more structured rugby. they can do that as well.

"I don’t know whether New Zealand can adapt like that and that is an advantage.

"The likes of Jason White and Trevor Brennan will come into the reckoning for selection because you need that hardness. It is such an uncompromising tour.

"And if you are a Grand Slam winner you have a fair chance selection. I think there will be a big contingent from Wales. Mike Ruddock has said they should all be in contention and he is right.

"They are the players in form, they are confident at moment and I think with 44 players you can offer something different if need be."

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