Jonny Wilkinson expects British & Irish Lions fly-half Owen Farrell to play a significant role at the World Cup after he bounced back from injury in impressive style.
Farrell, who helped the Lions to a series victory in Australia two years ago, missed a lot of this season while battling a knee ligament injury.
However, he returned to guide Saracens to victory in the Premiership final – against Bath and England fly-half rival George Ford.
And Wilkinson, who toured with the Lions in both 2001 and 2005, believes that duo will both have an important part to play for England this autumn.
“What a great way to finish the season with the two guys squaring off in the Premiership final,” said Wilkinson.
“It was great that finished the way it did for Farrell, because you can’t underestimate how difficult, emotionally and mentally, it is to deal with having a long-term injury and see someone come in and play as well as Ford did for England.
“For Farrell the question was: ‘What do I do about it? I am going to take all the pressure and come back strong’.
“Owen has that sturdiness that brings confidence to the boys around him, but George has got those subtle touches that show he is aware how to play different situations.
“I don’t know if it is a horses for courses affair in terms of the World Cup but they are both going to feature. It may come down to which team we are playing.”
Be part of the biggest Tour in the world and register your interest in travelling with the British & Irish Lions to New Zealand in 2017
