Monday 23rd June 08

Hull KR winger Peter Fox and Castleford Tigers loose forward Joe Westerman are two players who could make their international debuts against France this Friday’s in the Gillette Fusion International in Toulouse.

Both have been named in Tony Smith’s 19 man England squad to face the French.

Captained by Leeds Rhinos forward Jamie Peacock the squad includes 16 players who played a part in Great Britain’s three-nil series whitewash over New Zealand in last autumn.

England coach Tony Smith said: “I have picked a strong squad which is based on current form, but also one which includes a few new faces from the squad which beat the Kiwis last autumn.

“The trip to France will give us good experience ahead of the World Cup.  I won’t just be looking at how they perform on the pitch this week but also how they interact with each other in camp.  This is their opportunity to impress and, providing they maintain their form over the remainder of the season, potentially book their flights to Australia for the World Cup.

 “Peter and Joe have both had good seasons with their clubs and are included in the squad on merit.

“I expect the game against France to be a tough one especially in the forwards.  Catalans Dragons’ success this year has been built on a strong pack, and the majority of those players will be turning out for France this Friday.”

The squad features six players from engage Super League champions Leeds Rhinos and seven from current Carnegie Challenge Cup holders St Helens.

Friday’s Gillette Fusion International between England and France is live on Sky Sports, kick off 7.45pm.

The England team is sponsored by Gillette.

The 19 man England squad in full: