Will Joseph Set for Test Recall Against Japan
Gloucester back Will Joseph stands poised to return to the England lineup for Saturday’s Test against Japan at Twickenham, theguardian.com reported. Head coach Steve Borthwick faces an enforced backline reshuffle following injuries sustained during the opening Autumn Nations Series fixture.
England secured a victory against Australia last weekend but lost winger Manny Feyi-Waboso to an ankle injury at half-time. Midfielder Seb Atkinson and fullback George Furbank also joined the injury list, leaving vacant spots in the matchday 23.
Will Joseph offers tactical versatility in training
Joseph spent last weekend as a travelling reserve. The 24-year-old can operate at both centre and wing, offering the tactical versatility that Borthwick requires this week.
Assistant coach Kevin Sinfield praised the Gloucester player’s impact on the training pitch since joining the camp. “He beats people, he’s got great balance and he’s a good defender with unbelievable power and speed off the mark,” Sinfield said.
Teammate Alex Coles also highlighted Joseph’s sharp form in Bagshot. Coles noted a training session where Joseph rounded a defender in tight space, drawing praise even from opposing players.
Joseph earned his debut under Eddie Jones
Joseph earned his sole previous cap four years ago as a 20-year-old apprentice during a victory against the Wallabies in Brisbane. Current Brave Blossoms head coach Eddie Jones handed the youngster his debut during that 2022 tour.
Since then, Joseph has moved to Gloucester, where he scored a notable try against Exeter earlier this season. Other contenders in the wider squad include Cadan Murley, Joe Marchant, Noah Caluori, and Tobias Elliott, though Joseph’s recent integration gives him an immediate edge.
Managing Long-Term Squad Health
Feyi-Waboso remains a key attacking asset for England despite his current layoff. Sinfield described the Exeter player’s brief performance against Australia as world-class.
Looking ahead to the 2027 World Cup, RFU officials are examining workload management for key players. Discussions with Premiership clubs like Exeter Chiefs and Sale Sharks may introduce limits on minutes for injury-prone stars such as Feyi-Waboso and Tom Curry.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the match against Japan taking place?
The fixture takes place on Saturday at Twickenham Stadium in London, following England’s recent match against Australia.
How many international caps does Will Joseph have?
Joseph holds a single senior cap for England, earned off the bench against Australia in Brisbane in July 2022.
Which injuries forced changes to the England squad?
Steve Borthwick must rearrange his backline due to injuries affecting Manny Feyi-Waboso, Seb Atkinson, and George Furbank.
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