Ugo Monye believes George Furbank’s inclusion for tomorrow’s Calcutta Cup clash with Scotland gives England a “real point of difference”.
Northampton Saints full-back Furbank was preferred to Freddie Steward for the game at Murrayfield due to his excellent club form this season.
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Monye was surprised coach Steve Borthwick made the decision but is excited at the prospect of Furbank pitting his wits against the Scots.
He told the BBC Rugby Union Daily podcast: “Furbank just raises the potential of the attack in this team.
“I really rate Steward and when he’s played for England he’s been very good, he’s very dependable.
“Furbank coming in at 15 heightens the ability of England to be able to attack, and be more coherent, dangerous and score more points.
“This is an attack-minded selection, the only reason I’m surprised by it is that it’s very unlike Steve Borthwick. This England team wants to move on and progress. This could be a real point of difference for England.”
Furbank admitted his surprise at getting the nod for the game in Edinburgh as England look to make it three wins from three Six Nations games following victories over Italy and Wales.
“There’s a couple of bits I’ve been working on and I feel like I’m in a better place as an all-round player,” Furbank told BBC Sport.
“I’ve got a bit bigger, that has helped my game. I’ve taken up more of a leadership role at Saints.
“I’m quite realistic with myself, I know that I’m not a player who can be in average form and make an England squad.
“I don’t necessarily think I saw the selection coming. Freddie has been in great form the last few games, playing really well.
“His consistency is something I strive for as well. That’s something I want to develop in my game.”
