Rob Andrew has backed Stuart Lancaster’s decision not to select Toulon flanker Steffon Armitage for England’s autumn internationals and believes there is no reason to alter the Rugby Football Union’s policy of not selecting players who ply their trade overseas.
Armitage’s hopes of an England recall were dashed last month when Bath failed to agree a six-month loan deal with Toulon. That meant that Lancaster was unable to select the man who was voted as European Player of the Year last season for the matches against New Zealand, South Africa, Samoa and Australia.
Speaking to French rugby magazine Midi Olympique in an interview published on Monday, Andrew, who is the RFU’s Professional Rugby Director, said he is keen to maintain their rules about selecting players for international duty.
“It’s the decision of Stuart. He’s decided to follow the RFU’s policy and I congratulate him on it,” said Andrew.
“It’s a principle very important for us: English rugby must stay in England. Regarding Armitage, we have a great many high-class back row forwards in England. These are our priority.”
Less than a year before the 2015 World Cup kicks off, Lancaster led England to two victories and two defeats in their autumn internationals. The former teacher signed a six-year deal at the start of October which will take him through to the year 2020.
But despite some criticism of England’s performances against New Zealand and South Africa, Andrew is confident they have the right man in charge.
“Since 2012 they have done a fantastic job. Stuart has given confidence back to the team,” he said.
