News

Kay answers England call

November 24 2008

Leicester lock Ben Kay has been called into the England squad ahead of next Saturday's Test against New Zealand as cover for the injured Tom Palmer.

Martin Johnson sent for Kay, his former Leicester team-mate and second-row partner in the 2003 World Cup Final, as Palmer continues to undergo treatment for a tight right calf muscle.

Palmer was replaced by Wasps team-mate Simon Shaw after 34 minutes of England's record 42-6 defeat to South Africa last Saturday.

Inside centre Riki Flutey is also a doubt for the All Blacks clash after limping out of the action with a tight hamstring.

England medics are still treating prop Andrew Sheridan, who missed the Springboks game with a neck injury.

Johnson names his team to face Grand Slam-chasing New Zealand at midday (GMT) on Tuesday.