News

Johnson backs Cipriani impact

November 25 2008

England Team Manager Martin Johnson insisted Danny Cipriani will still have an important role to play against New Zealand despite being demoted to the replacements bench.

The Wasps fly-half is replaced in the starting line-up by Leicester's Toby Flood as England bid to bounce back from last week's record Twickenham defeat by South Africa.

"We are picking the team for this game we think has the best chance of winning. In the view of the whole thing, every game we play we pick the team accordingly. Danny is on the bench and is still involved," Johnson said.

"All these games are a squad effort. He has a role to play this week, just not a starting role. Coming off the bench these guys have an important role, they are on the field at the end of the game, he is on the bench and so are a number of other good players."

Johnson is also backing the 21-year-old to have a long future in international rugby despite a couple of shaky performances since his return from a six-month injury lay-off.

"Danny has got a long future in the international game but so has Toby Flood so there are plenty of good players to choose from. Other options, other players," he added.

"He wanted to play, he was disappointed but understands there are only fifteen who can start and seven on the bench.

"They all have a role to play. He's in the 22 and will have a role to play on Saturday."