Rugby
Falcons Players for England
13 August 2007
Newcastle director of rugby, John Fletcher, spoke of his delight on Monday as the Falcons trio of Jamie Noon, Jonny Wilkinson and Mathew Tait was named in the England squad for the upcoming Rugby World Cup.
Fletcher said: "It's great news for the club to have such a strong representation in the England squad.
"I'm delighted for all three of the lads, and I'm sure they will be a credit to their country during what is an exciting period of time for them.
"Their involvement backs up everything we stand for here at Newcastle, bringing through talented English players, and we wish them all well in France for the duration of the tournament."
The unlucky Falcon to miss out on selection was Toby Flood, having starred at fly half and centre for both club and country.
"Toby is bitterly disappointed, understandably so, but he has taken it on the chin and shown great maturity in dealing with the situation," said Fletcher.
"He trained with the Falcons squad today and will now be added to our plans for the early part of the season, but he will remain on England's radar in the event of injury and they know they have a quality player here ready to step in."
Outlining his hopes for the competition, former England A centre Fletcher said: "I'm a fiercely patriotic person, and like everyone else in the country I'll be cheering for England all the way.
"A World Cup is always an exciting time, but to have three Falcons players involved, all of whom have come through our academy, makes it extra special."
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