Sir Clive Woodward says Elliot Daly's international future is at centre
Monday 6 February 2017 09:24, UK
Sir Clive Woodward says Elliot Daly's England future is in midfield after his fine display in Saturday's Six Nations victory over France at Twickenham.
England were some way from their best in the opening game of their title defence, but battled to a 19-16 victory over a rejuvenated and hugely physical France team.
Wasps star Daly started the match on the wing, but finished it in his club position in midfield as England's replacements forced a reshuffle of the back line.
England's 2003 World Cup-winning coach believes that is where boss Eddie Jones should pick him in next week's trip to face Wales in Cardiff, pointing out that Exeter's Jack Nowell is a more natural threat on the wing.
"Behind the scrum I would bring in Jack Nowell for Elliot Daly, which would be harsh on the latter but Nowell is too good a wing and finisher to leave out," Woodward wrote in his Daily Mail column.
"It's a real dilemma with Daly - he offers so much because he is such an all-rounder.
"There was one stunning moment in the first half when George Ford had a kick ahead blocked. Daly gathered and turned in one movement and found touch 50 yards upfield with a delightful kick just over the wing's head.
"It was sheer class and not for the first time I am wondering if, going forward, he shouldn't be allowed to stake his claim at centre. He looked very at home in midfield in the closing stages after England had rejigged their forces. Centre is his best position."
