Burgess set for World Cup squad

Editor

Sam Burgess is set to be included in England's World Cup training squad as a centre according to reports.

The former rugby league star switched to union this season, but struggled initially with Bath after starting in the centres.

He has since started playing in the back row, however it is being reported that he will likely be included as a replacement for the suspended Manu Tuilagi in England's preliminary squad.

According to the Mail on Sunday, England will name a 50-man training squad which will come together on June 21, with Burgess likely to be included.

And while Burgess has looked more comfortably playing at blindside for Bath, Stuart Lancaster is apparently keen to use his power in midfield, with England having lost Tuilagi this week after he admitted to assaulting two police officers.

Burgess joined up with the England squad to train during the Six Nations, although he has not yet played international rugby union.

The report also confirmed that overseas duo Steffon Armitage and Nick Abendanon will not be included in the squad.