Barkley ready for Down Under challenge
Barkley ready for Down Under challenge
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Tuesday, 11, Apr 2006 09:30
Bath centre Olly Barkley has insisted that he is determined to make a big impression on England's summer's tour to Australia.
Barkley missed the entire Six Nations campaign with a dislocated thumb and had to watch on as his teammates lost to Scotland, France and Ireland.
However, he insists that he is now ready to return to the international arena and help revive England's fortunes before next year's World Cup.
"I was desperately disappointed to miss out on the Six Nations, as I think anyone would be, and now I'm desperate to tour Australia," Barkley said.
England coach Andy Robinson has already admitted that he will be taking a weakened side on tour to play two Tests in Australia in June.
When England did the same thing on the tour to Australia and New Zealand a couple of years ago, they suffered three heavy defeats and much criticism.
However, the resting of players will be welcomed by Barkley, who would have more chance of claiming a place in the team, either in the much-contested centre position or at fly-half.
For Barkley, though, it doesn't matter.
"I'm still undecided as to where my best position or even preferred position is but as a ten and a 12 it is up to the coaches to let me know their thoughts and for a decision to be made," Barkley added.
Before this summer, however, Barkley will be concentrating on helping Bath in their quest to win the Heineken Cup.
Bath face Biarritz on April 22nd for a place in the final against either Leinster or Munster.