Will Greenwood insists England are not feeling the absence of Owen Farrell after his decision to step away from international rugby.
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The former Saracens star announced his break from England duty following their exit from the Rugby World Cup at the hands of South Africa last year.
Farrell has subsequently signed a two-year deal with Racing 92, making him ineligible for England selection under RFU regulations that prevent the inclusion of overseas-based players.
Speaking to Express Sport, Greenwood revealed: “The most amazing thing is, at the time when you are playing, you look at some players and think they will never survive without that human. Every single sports team and franchise always survives without that human.
“I think rugby is such a collective team effort. I’m such a big fan of Owen Farrell, he’s an amazing influence on the team, but the next generation have got their opportunity. I think Owen is really happy with his decision and I think England are really happy with where they are.
“I would be creating some sort of false narrative to go: ‘Without him, this team is this and that’. I think the best comment you can make is that both sides are really happy with what is taking place. That doesn’t mean the door is shut. He’s got an opportunity to come back and he will have to fight for it.
“Then there will be a narrative which says: ‘Is he good enough to get his place back?’. That’s two years away. Right now, it’s been a win-win in terms of the decision. No harm, no foul.”
Worst rugby stadiums in the world
#5. Stade de France (Paris, France)
- Capacity: 80,698
- Opened: 1998
- Home to: France
- Cost: €364 million
- DID YOU KNOW? It will host the opening and closing ceremonies and the athletics events at the 2024 Summer Olympics
Opened in 1998, the Stade de France in Paris is a prominent venue with a capacity of 80,698. Home to the French national rugby team, it cost €364 million to build. Known for its atmosphere during matches, it will also host the opening and closing ceremonies and athletics events for the 2024 Summer Olympics. Despite its grand scale, reviews have pointed out issues with cleanliness and food options, affecting its overall fan satisfaction score.
Embed from Getty Images#4. Allianz Riviera (Nice, France)
- Capacity: 35,169
- Opened: 2013
- Home to: Toulon (Occasional)
- Cost: €250 million
The Allianz Riviera, opened in 2013 in Nice, boasts a capacity of 35,169 and serves as an occasional home to Toulon rugby club. Built at a cost of €250 million, this modern stadium is praised for its design but criticized for affordability and the quality of food available. Although it provides a decent atmosphere, these factors have led to lower satisfaction ratings from visitors.
Embed from Getty Images