ENGLAND need to do well in the Gillette Four Nations for the credibility of the domestic game.
That’s the view of Giants’ coach Nathan Brown ahead of the autumn series against his native Australia, New Zealand and Wales.
But the former St George Dragons player and coach knows England could again struggle against the Kangaroos and the Kiwis if they suffer injuries to key players.
National coach Steve McNamara has already lost the services of Sam Burgess and Sean O’Loughlin ahead of England’s opening Four Nations game against Wales at Leigh on October 29.
And if others fall by the wayside as the competition progresses, Brown fears the worst.
“The key for England is to keep their players fit and healthy,” said Brown. “If they can do that, then they’ll be competitive and could have some success.
“But if they start picking upinjuries, it will put pressure on the other blokes, and that’s when they could struggle.
“There’s no doubt that if England can put their best 17 out on the field, they’re a match for anyone, but the real problem they’ve got is the depth of squad.
“You could take the top players out of the Australia or New Zealand side and replace them with others who are just as good. They’d still be strong.
“Unfortunately, with England, that’s still not the case, so hopefully injuries won’t take their toll.
“As an Australian, I always like to see my country do well.
“But for the credibility of the game over here, I want to see England do well. That would give Super League a real shot in the arm.”
