Goode To Make England Start At Full-Back

Goode To Make England Start At Full-Back

Saracens' Alex Goode will make his first start for England at full-back, as England wrap up with tour of South Africa against the Spingboks on Saturday.

 

The 25 year-old takes the place of Ben Foden, who will play on the left wing for the fixture in Port Elizabeth.

 

The match will also see Danny Care recalled to the starting line-up for the first time, since being dropped by England boss Stuart Lancaster for the Six Nations.

 

It will be Goode's second senior appearance, after coming off of the bench for Jonathan Joseph during last week's second test.

 

It is also a huge show of faith from Lancaster, who said he is rewarding the Saracen for his hard work and impressive attitude while in the southern hemisphere.

 

“I am really pleased for Alex. He has worked hard in training and has been pushing Mike Brown and Ben Foden close, so we are looking forward to him bringing his footballing skills to this Test," Lancaster said.

 

The inclusion of Goode and Care follows recalls for James Haskell, Alex Corbisiero and Tom Palmer, as well as a first start for Leicester Tigers number eight Thomas Waldrom.

 

“We felt that the pack got some momentum in the second half last week so we have gone for Alex and Tom, but I am sure Joe Marler and Mo Botha can make an impact from the bench,” Lancaster continued.

 

"The guys did the shirt proud in Potchefstroom on Tuesday and I have no doubt that the 22 involved on Saturday will rise to this final challenge as we look to end this almost 12-month season on a high."