England centre Henry Paul insists the former league players involved with the union set-up all deserve to be there. Ex-league stars Paul and new captain Jason Robinson will face Canada, while Joe Lydon and Phil Larder are on the coaching staff.
"The league guys are all here on merit," said Paul. "Jason is fantastic and Joe has got a great grounding with the juniors and the Sevens.
"We're getting the chances and taking them. League has got a lot to offer."
Paul was full of praise for Lydon, who joined the coaching staff during the summer after coaching the Sevens team.
"It's good seeing Joe there, he's really pushing me," said Paul. "He wants me to be the best.
"Same as when I was with the Sevens. It's about winning. He's here to win and so am I."
Paul, who played for Wakefield, Wigan and Bradford Bulls before crossing codes to join Gloucester, has been brought in to try to spark England's backline.
He admitted that he was surprised to be given the chance now he is 30 and with the World Cup three years away.
"It's a great opportunity," said Paul. "But I'm still getting over the shock of it a bit.
"I've just got to take it with two hands and really have a go. With class guys around me I've just got to take my chance and open up some space for them."
MMIX
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