Delon Armitage getting starting role for England against Argentina - Rugby Union News
Delon Armitage, who has been deployed in England’s’ starting lines, is all set to avail the rare opportunity of starting for his national squad in the absence of Mark Cueto. He will start the opening game of England at the left wing after Cueto was ruled
out from the match due to a back injury. England is getting its Rugby World Cup battle underway with a tough expected game against Argentina on September 10. Armitage has expressed his heartiest pleasure for being included in England’s side on September 8
and said that it was quite surprising to find out that he would be playing.
Armitage made his international debut for England in 2008 against the Pacific Islanders as a fullback in dramatic fashion as their regular player at the position, Mathew Tait, was ruled out due to an injury. He delivered a wonderful performance on his debut
day and English manager, Martin Johnson, was forced to praise him for his tremendous show. Johnson described him as a wonderful player right after one game under his belt.
England faced a bad phase during the autumn season but yet again Armitage was one of those players who played reasonably well for the team.
Describing his excitement for being included in England’s starting lines, Armitage said that it is was big opportunity for him to start the RWC 2011. He added that, “I didn't even think I'd be over here (in New Zealand as part of the squad. To have the opportunity
to start now, I'm speechless, it's like a dream come true. It's everything I've ever wanted since I watched the final in 2003.”
The English manager Martin Johnson also hailed Armitage’s inclusion in his side and said that he is in good nick at the moment. Johnson added that, “The decision was a pretty simple one. Delon's raring to go. He's a very good
footballer, he is in good form so you go with him. Mark is disappointed.”
England will now enter the field against Argentina on September 10 without their regular skipper Lewis Moody and Mark Cueto due to old injuries.
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