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Robinson hails Foden threat

Wednesday 23rd April 2008

Familiar Break: Robinson backing 'unique' Foden

Jason Robinson has joined the Ben Foden debate by backing the Sale star to make the grade as a long-term England full-back.

The young Shark is heading to Northampton this summer in a bid to secure a regular spot at his preferred role of scrum-half, sparking a fierce debate about where his positional future lies.

"If Ben hadn't been injured, in my opinion, he would have been nailed on as full-back for England in the Six Nations," Robinson told the Stockport Express.

"Ben is one of a unique bunch of players who are game breakers. He's got explosive pace, a fantastic side-step and an eye for the line.

"In my opinion the ruck and scrum are very cluttered in rugby union, as a scrum-half you are having to start from a standing start.

"If Ben receives superb ball from Charlie Hodgson or Luke McAlister or that type of player and is hitting it on the run then he is probably one of the best in world rugby.

"He has also got a fantastic boot. Sometimes you've got to clear your lines and if, from that position, you can boot it, it makes a good, complete full-back.

"I totally agree with Philippe [Saint-Andre] that Ben has the makings of a world class full-back."

The now retired Robinson broke onto the international union stage as a fast-footed finisher and memorably made his mark on the British and Irish Lions tour of Australia in 2001.

"When I first started in rugby I was desperate to be a scrum-half, where I had played all my junior rugby," he added.

"When I signed for Wigan John Monie said I would never make it as a scrum-half. Given what I've achieved in rugby I'm very grateful for the advice I received."