MX23RW : Sunday, November 24 10:27:46| >> :600:134596:134596:

Jonah Lomu: 'England must handle pressure'

Former New Zealand winger Jonah Lomu claims that England will have to deal with the pressure which comes with being World Cup hosts.

World Cup winner Jonah Lomu has claimed that hosts England must handle the pressure of the home fans if they are to stand a chance in this year's tournament.

Despite facing Australia and Wales in Pool A, Lomu believes that England can enjoy success if they respond well to the expectation on their shoulders as they bid for a second title.

"There is going to be a lot of pressure on New Zealand but the majority of it is on England," the former New Zealand winger told BBC Sport. "It is their home tournament and they are playing in front of their own fans and family. That's where it all sits.

"You come to the World Cup to play against the best of the best.

"England need to play their game. If they can control their emotions and play to their ability, they should be there or thereabouts in terms of winning the pool."

England kick off the tournament against Fiji on Friday.

ID:246500: cacheID:246500:1false2false3false:QQ:: from db desktop :LenBod:restore:1780:
Restore Data
Share this article now:
England's Jonny Wilkinson kicks the winning drop goal against Australia during the final of the World Cup on November 22, 2003
Read Next:
Top five greatest Rugby World Cup players
>
Read more about Jonah Lomu Rugby Union
rhs 2.0
Today's games header
6pm
Vikings
@
Bears
6pm
Lions
@
Colts
6pm
Patriots
@
Dolphins
6pm
Buccaneers
@
Giants
6pm
Chiefs
@
Panthers
6pm
Titans
@
Texans
6pm
Cowboys
@
Washington
9.05pm
Broncos
@
Raiders
9.25pm
49ers
@
Packers
9.25pm
Cardinals
@
Seahawks


Sports Mole provides in-depth previews and predictions for every match from the biggest leagues and competitions in world football.
Argentina's Lionel Messi kisses the World Cup trophy after collecting the Golden Ball award on December 18, 2022Sign up for our FREE daily preview newsletter direct to your inbox!