RUGBY UNION BETTING: Phil Vickery believes England can put their disappointing form from the November Tests behind them and make a real statement in the Six Nations Championship.
Martin Johnson’s men are currently 4/1 with betfred in the outright betting to win their first title since 2003, with France, who have won it three times in the last six years, favourites at 6/4 and reigning champions Ireland on offer at 5/2.
Johnson has only led England to six wins in his 14 matches in charge but believes that the squad selected is the best he has had so far, and Vickery is positive that the 2003 World Cup winners can make their mark this year.
“I am optimistic. There have been a lot of negative things written about the England team but I am excited. I think it has got the potential to be really good,” said Vickery.
England kick off their campaign with a clash against 2008 Grand Slam winners Wales at Twickenham on Saturday and Vickery is hopeful that Johnson will throw off the shackles and go for the jugular.
“England will come up against the best Welsh team there has been for a long time. They can’t be negative,” he added. “England this week should go out, make a real statement and lay their stall out. I am really hopeful.”
Betfred make England are 8/13 favourites to make home advantage count at the weekend, with Wales (who have been given three points in the handicap betting) available at 5/4 and the draw at 18/1.
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