 Wilkinson has been plagued by injuries |
England fly-half Jonny Wilkinson has played down fears that his ongoing injury problems could end his career. The Newcastle stand-off has not played for England since winning the 2003 World Cup and is currently out of action with an abductor muscle problem.
He told Rugby World: "I don't blame people for writing me off. I can see their point of view.
"But if people are saying I'm finished I'm going to prove them wrong. I'll be back even better than before."
The 26-year-old's latest setback in a catalogue of injuries has led his club coach Rob Andrew to question the player's long-term future.
But Wilkinson insists he has not given up hope of playing, and excelling, at the highest level again and believes his best rugby is still ahead of him.
"Yes, of course the plan is to get back in the England team, play in future World Cups, Lions tours and everything else," he said.
"And I really know there is so much more of a player inside me waiting to come out that the world of rugby hasn't seen yet.
"People were very kind to me a few years ago when I played for England, but I knew, deep down, that I wasn't even close to my optimum. I hope to rectify that on my return."
MMIX
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