Morley tips big things from Fielden - Sports News - Fanatics - the world's biggest events

Morley tips big things from Fielden

By Andy Hampson 05/10/2010 05:33:58 PM Comments (0)

New captain Adrian Morley will look to rejuvenated Wigan prop Stuart Fielden to spearhead the English attack in the Four Nations rugby league tournament this month.

Fielden has been named alongside fellow enforcer Morley in coach Steve McNamara's squad for the international series against Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea.

England are $11 outsiders to win the tournament, with Australia heavy favourites at $1.20, but Morley's hopes have piqued after viewing Fielden's impressive form during Wigan's Super League title triumph this year.

"I'm delighted for Stu on a personal level," Morley said.

"He has had his ups and downs in the last few years but he is getting back to his best.

"It is great that he is back to the form that warranted his international call-ups in the first place."

Such success was expected of Fielden when he made his world record STG450,000 ($A735,000) move to the club from Bradford four years ago but form deserted him.

Only this year has the man once rated as the world's premier forward got back to his best and fellow front-rower Morley is looking forward to packing down with him.

"England, or Great Britain as it was, can't boast seven or eight world-class players like Australia can," Morley added.

"We have probably got four or five and Stuart Fielden was one of them.

"His form dipped and he has been in some dark places over the last few years but he is getting that form back."

While Fielden returns to the squad from the international wilderness, England fly out on Friday without their inspirational captain of recent years in Jamie Peacock.

The Leeds forward is missing the tour with a serious knee injury.

"We will miss him very much. He has been a huge part of the scene for the last 10 years and, to be honest, if he was here I wouldn't be sitting here as captain," Morley admitted.

Only one Leeds player made McNamara's 24-man squad - Ryan Hall - but six from Huddersfield were included.

The headlines were stolen by Luke Robinson, whose surprise selection has forced him to postpone his planned wedding in Cyprus later this month.

Fielden also has family issues, as his wife is overdue with their first child.

McNamara also included three NRL players in South Sydney prop Sam Burgess, Wests Tigers' player of the year Gareth Ellis and Melbourne rookie Gareth Widdop.

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