Barrington backing Farrell to inspire England to World Cup glory
Richard Barrington thinks Saracens team-mate Owen Farrell will emulate the great Jonny Wilkinson by inspiring England to Rugby World Cup glory in Japan.
Farrell showed nerves of steel, as he has done so many times for club and country, by slotting over a late penalty to secure a series draw for the British and Irish Lions in New Zealand this month.
The versatile Farrell, who played at fly-half and centre against the All Blacks, has proved to be the man for the big stage on numerous occasions.
Sarries hooker Barrington believes the 25-year-old European Player of the Year could be lifting the Webb Ellis Cup in Japan in two years' time, just as Wilkinson did after breaking Australian hearts with a drop-goal to settle the 2003 World Cup final.
Barrington told Omnisport: "When I play with Owen, especially when the atmosphere is hostile against French clubs and the likes of Munster, the boos from rival fans gee him up.
"He thrives on it and seems to use it in his favour. He is an unbelievable talent, one of the best I have ever played with no doubt.
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"He is just so consistent and has developed into one of the best players in the world. He is a winner, a great character.
"I rate him so highly. Jonny Wilkinson obviously got that silverware everyone wants, the World Cup, but I think England will win it in Japan and Owen will have a big part to play.
"He thrives on the pressure in the big games and he will stand up in the World Cup."
- Richard Barrington was speaking at the Betsafe sponsor launch event with Saracens. For more information, visit www.Betsafe.com
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That loss to the Blues still stings! The Reds have fallen short in 4 of the 6 games decided by 7 points or fewer. Are they not fit enough to close out the close games or are there tactical issues when games go down to the wire? The pleasing thing is no Australian side can better the Reds record of 3 wins from 5 against Kiwi sides but the Brumbies can match it. Les Kiss has instilled a belief in the Reds that they can match it with all the New Zealand sides.
Go to commentsA potential 5th star for Leinster and redemption adter losing 2 tight finals against La Rochelle against Toulouse and the chance for Jacques Nienaber to have some success without Rassie Erasmus running the show.
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