With Lions duo Brad Barritt and Tuilagi injured for the autumn internationals – boss Stuart Lancaster turned to the inexperienced pairing of Tomkins and Gloucester’s Billy Twelvetrees to fire England’s back-line.
Without looking fluid at times – Tomkins, who made his international debut in the win over Australia in November and Twelvetrees inspired England to wins over the Wallabies and Argentina, while they even ran the world’s number one team close, New Zealand, close at Twickenham.
With the Six Nations on the horizon after Christmas, a tour of New Zealand in the summer and of course a home World Cup in 2015 – Tomkins is well aware now is the time to shine.
But the Saracens-man knows it’s his performances for his club-side that will count as he looks to catch the eye of Lancaster.
“There is always pressure – there are always going to be good players in every position – that is what international rugby is all about,†said Tomkins, who was speaking alongside Saracens players Mouritz Botha and Ben Ransom on behalf of sponsors Aviva.
“It’s just about playing well for your club week-in, week-out, then if you do get your chance to play for England, you have got to take it with both hands.
“Injuries always come and go – it’s part of sport – and if other people get injured and you get an opportunity you have got to take it.
“I never really worry too much about other players in my position. I just try and concentrate on how I’m playing and if I play well enough to get the call, then happy days.â€
Article source: http://www.irishmirror.ie/showbiz/irish-showbiz/ireland-rugby-star-jonny-sexton-2047783
Joel Tomkins hungry for more England caps
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