Chris Robshaw hails England's newcomers following win over Barbarians
Monday 29 May 2017 14:38, UK
Chris Robshaw has hailed the impact made by England's newcomers, as preparations continue for a two-Test tour of Argentina.
Former England captain Robshaw will be among the senior campaigners heading to South America next weekend, with the Pumas awaiting in San Juan and Santa Fe.
Despite losing a number of players to British and Irish Lions business in New Zealand this summer, with the entire series live on Sky Sports, England head coach Eddie Jones can still summon experienced figures like Robshaw, Dylan Hartley, Joe Launchbury, Mike Brown, Danny Care and George Ford.
But there will also be a sprinkling of youth, including twins Tom and Ben Curry, in addition to fellow teenagers Joe Cokanasiga and Nick Isiekwe.
Another newcomer, Saracens wing Nathan Earle, underlined his talent by scoring a brilliant try during England's 28-14 victory over the Barbarians at Twickenham on Sunday.
"I have been really impressed with everyone, whether they have been 18 or 32 or something like that," Robshaw said.
"It was a first hit-out for a lot of guys in an England shirt, and sometimes that can be a bit overwhelming, especially being at Twickenham in front of a good crowd against a star-studded team. But it was perfect preparation for us going to Argentina.
"Two weeks ago it made me feel old when I looked around, and I must have been the oldest player by about seven years!
"It keeps you on your toes, I tell you that. There are about three or four of them (teenagers) in the squad now.
"They are extremely energetic, they want to get involved and they want to learn. That's the important thing. They want to soak up information, whether it is from players or coaches, and they want to improve and really enjoy the set-up.
"I think everyone has come in and done themselves proud."
England's clash with the Barbarians was their first since having their Six Nations Grand Slam hopes ended by defeat to Ireland in March.
Robshaw added: "It is about trying to kick on from that Ireland game, because obviously that didn't go to plan.
"You never want to lose two games on the bounce, and that was an important message for us going into it (Barbarians match)."
