Foden hails relaxed England
Saints ace Ben Foden says the young guns in the England squad are no longer intimidated by the established stars.
After many stuttering performances, Martin Johnson's England finally roared into life with a thrilling and deserved 21-20 Test win in Australia, only the third time that has ever happened.
Foden, along with Saints team-mates Chris Ashton and Courtney Lawes did much to re-energise a staid England.
And the 24-year-old believes the growing openness between the players was behind the much-improved performance Down Under.
"We're working hard to create the environment where you can't be intimidated to speak to somebody who has 70 caps," said Foden in Rugby World.
"Players have to have the confidence to say to someone like Jonny Wilkinson 'you need to do this to bring out the best in me'. Jonny will take that on board and he'll say something to you in the same way. There is respect among the players and that is crucial.
"This atmosphere also allows people to put their hands up and admit to mistakes in team meetings without fear. We want the environment where guys are prepared to admit to their mistakes."
Foden knows all too well he has to keep his form going if he is to keep his place in the England side.
"We have to keep progressing as a team and individuals to justify being in the side."
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Friday 10 February 2012
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