Martin Offiah supports Rangi Chase’s inclusion in English squad - Rugby League
While talking to reporters on Tuesday, October 11, Martin Offiah stated that he does not approve of Castleford Tigers’ Rangi Chase’s nomination for the Man of Steel title this year. However, he seconded the player’s inclusion in England 24-man squad which
was named yesterday.
Last week, the player was called in by the English head coach, Steve’s McNamara, for his train-on squad alongside when the player had been crowned the prestigious honour of Man of Steel.
Chase has spent a spectacular season at his former club, Tigers, which led him in contention for the Man of Steel award. However, the prop has made into the English squad on residency grounds, being a native New Zealander by origin.
The prop’s inclusion in the English squad has caused controversy and has been the talk of the town for quite some time. Questions have been raised on the player’s commitment to the English outfit, which has led to his applying for dual nationality in order
to prove his commitment to the squad.
Offiah is of the viewpoint that the critics will eventually come to terms with the player’s signing, because this move will definitely add to the ferocity of the competition as it will improve the overall quality of the team.
While discussing Chase’s case with Gary Schofield on Twitter Offiah said that he fully supports Chase's move. He further added, "If we have a bigger gene pool then you never know, one day it might be Chase's son who is lifting the World Cup for England.
It's better to have a bigger pool of players than a small one. He doesn't have to be picked ahead of the likes of Jonny Lomax or Lee Gaskell - it's just a question of having a bigger gene pool and that's one thing we've suffered from in the past.In my day
if one player got injured - such as Ellery Hanley or Sean Edwards - you've had it.”
He also said that that on twitter people complain that young blood needs to be added to the team, which has been the case for Chase but now that his uptake was announced, it completely failed to get the welcome he deserved.
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