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Last Updated: Monday, 18 October, 2004, 10:53 GMT 11:53 UK
Wilkinson plays down form fears
Jonny Wilkinson
Jonny Wilkinson has played down criticism of his form following his return from a long-term injury.

"I'm always looking to improve my game, I'm never that happy with the way I'm playing. But I want more game time," the England captain told BBC Sport.

And the star fly-half insisted fears for his fitness were groundless.

"I'm getting more confident with each game. I'm enjoying playing and I am fitter and fresher than I've ever been," he told BBC Radio Five Live.

The Newcastle star took a number of blows on his right arm during his side's 20-20 draw with Saracens and had to receive treatment for the second time in a week.

But he said that there were no problems with the shoulder and neck injury that led to his enforced absence from the game.

"My shoulder and neck are better than they've ever been - the problem I had yesterday was with the bicep on my right arm," said Wilkinson.

Andy Robinson is a fantastic coach and enormously passionate
Jonny Wilkinson
"I've taken a few hits on exactly the same place - it's not serious but just quite unfortunate and quite painful.

"The neck and shoulder are up to anything and by the autumn Tests I fully expect to be on top of it and raring to go," he said.

And Falcons coach Rob Andrew said he was pleased with Wilkinson's display against Saracens, which included a last-ditch drop goal to snatch a draw for his side.

"He played really well overall, even though there were a couple of loose kicks out of hand. He defended magnificently in the first half and really got us going in the second."

Meanwhile, Wilkinson has given his backing to new England coach Andy Robinson, who was appointed last week.

"Andy Robinson is a fantastic coach and enormously passionate.

"He's perfect for the job and already looking to be enormously inspirational."




SEE ALSO
Brooke - Wilkinson a marked man
13 Oct 04  |  Internationals
Wilkinson to lead England
04 Oct 04  |  Internationals


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