England Fly-half George Ford Confident in Team’s Future Following Farrell’s Departure
As England prepares to navigate the post-Owen Farrell era, fly-half George Ford insists there is more to come from the national team. Farrell, the former Test captain, stepped away from international rugby at the start of the year for mental health reasons and is now ineligible for Steve Borthwick’s side after signing for French club Racing 92 for the 2024/25 season.
Ford, a close friend of Farrell’s, took over as the playmaker for England’s Six Nations campaign, which ended with impressive performances in a win over champions Ireland and a narrow defeat to France. The 31-year-old is likely to be a central figure for England again this summer when they face Japan and travel to New Zealand for a mouthwatering two-Test series.
“Obviously it was going to be different without Owen,” Ford said. “He’s been a big part of the England team and the captain and leader for many years. The key for us was probably not to make it the same as when he was there because I don’t think anyone can replicate what Owen does.”
Despite the transition, Ford believes the Six Nations “probably got stronger as the tournament went on.” He added, “Even though we lost the last game, I thought the performance was still very good. I know everybody wants things immediately, but building a team and a way of playing does take a little bit of time sometimes.”
With a young squad that has “changed vastly from the World Cup,” Ford is proud of how the team navigated the Six Nations and found a way to win in the first couple of games. He is excited about the future, saying, “I honestly think there’s a lot more in that team. We’re at the start of the journey, but we feel we’re going in the right direction.”
As Ford prepares for the end of the regular Gallagher Premiership season with his club, Sale, his focus is on securing a play-off spot. The Sharks sit sixth in the table, just two points off the top four, but must win their final two matches against Leicester and defending champions Saracens to reach the post-season.
“We feel like we have a bit of momentum, a bit of confidence, and all our focus is on Friday night against Leicester because it’s do-or-die for us,” Ford said. “There’s massive belief in us here. We’re going to have to win two, and it’s going to be a crunch game with regards to where everyone finishes in the league.”
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