Robinson: We won't miss Wilko | The Sun |Sport|Rugby Union
Spacer
EXCLUSIVE

Robinson: We won't miss Wilko

CROCK SHOCK ... Jonny Wilkinson is helped off on Tuesday

CROCK SHOCK ... Jonny Wilkinson is helped off on Tuesday

Enjoy great wines from under £3 a bottles

JASON ROBINSON insists England will not miss Jonny Wilkinson — thanks to fly-half Danny Cipriani’s amazing comeback.

World Cup hero Wilko is facing five months on the sidelines with a dislocated knee.

But Cipriani is on the bench for Wasps’ EDF Energy Cup clash with Gloucester today as he continues his recovery from the broken ankle he suffered last May.

And he could not have timed his return better ahead of next month’s four Tests.

Robinson, who helped guide England to World Cup glory alongside Wilko in 2003, said: “Jonny’s injury is a massive shame.

“England need all our best players ahead of November’s tests — and he’s certainly one of those. But Cipriani’s comeback could not have come at a better time and it’s amazing he’s come back so soon.

“It shows incredible strength both physically and mentally.

“He’s a young man with a bright future and with Jonny being out, he’ll come straight back in.”

Former Sale full-back and winger Robinson reckons Cipriani, 20, is one of the brightest young stars England have produced in recent years.

Robbo added: “Danny can do everything. His all-round game is exceptional.

“He’s a good kicker and doesn’t just want to catch and pass a ball.

“He likes to create things and catch teams unaware with his creativity.

“That is exactly what the England team needs — a fly-half with vision who wants to attack. And the good news is he’s still so young.

Advertisement

“I just hope he can get more games under his belt so he’s ready for November.”

Wilkinson’s shocking knee damage at Gloucester on Tuesday was the Newcastle star’s 16TH injury since he booted England to World Cup glory five years ago.

And while some fear he will never reach his peak again, Robbo reckons Wilkinson is brave enough to fight back.

Robinson added: “Jonny’s career is not over by any means, 29 is still relatively young.

“But obviously all these injuries will take their toll.

“I hope he can come back and that when he does that will finally be the end of it.”

Baby P petitionSend to a friend

HAVE YOUR SAY

Tell us what you think of this story

DISCUSSIONS

Share your views on this story, in real time, on our discussion boards

Discuss - Discussion Section
Skip Left Hand Navigation
Skip Take me to site map