Care hails ‘outstanding’ Burrell for Six Nations heroics

Burrell grabbed three tries in five Six Nations starts for England after making his debut in the defeat to France at the beginning of February.

The 26-year-old’s superb Saints form won him his chance on the international stage and his club will now hope for some more big performances in the coming weeks.

Care will come face to face with his international colleague in the Amlin Challenge Cup semi-final at Franklin’s Gardens on April 25.

And the Quins scrum-half admits he can’t help but be impressed by the barrel-chested Saints centre.

“I thought Luther was probably up there with one of the best players in the Six Nations,” said Care. I thought he was outstanding,” added Care.

“He took to international rugby so well, it didn’t faze him at all. I think he scored three tries in five games. Not many players do that.

“It’s brilliant because we were really close as young lads growing up at Leeds so it’s great to see him getting a chance on the biggest stage which is what he deserves.”

Care also revelled in the presence of another Saints player in the England setup, with Lee Dickson pushing him for a starting spot.

The Quins player started each of England’s games, but Dickson was a more than able replacement from the bench.

And Care said: “It was great to work with Lee Dickson over the Six Nations, I think all of us will keep pushing each other and it will only be good for the team,” said Care.

“I don’t know about [me] having secured the scrum-half position. It’s so hard with the players around. I was really happy with how the Six Nations went, and how I played but by no means will I be resting on my laurels.

“I know that there are two or three of us fighting for that position like there is in every position.

“I was the lucky one to be able to play in the Six Nations and I want to try and keep that shirt for the summer tour to New Zealand. But I’ve got to play well with Quins to deserve it.

“With Ben (Youngs), myself, Lee, Richard Wigglesworth, there are going to be times where one is ahead of the other and the pecking order is going to change. I’m sure. I’ll have to work hard to keep hold of my shirt.”

England Rugby Union and former England Sevens player, Danny Care was speaking on behalf of HSBC at the Rosslyn Park HSBC National Schools Sevens where he helped run HSBC coaching clinics for schools during the tournament. For more information visit www.rpns7.co.uk