When former England winger Ugo Monye sat down with Planet Rugby last week, he took on the challenge of selecting a combined England and France XV. The team, featuring a mix of ten French and five English players, reflects the current dominance and flair found in French rugby, alongside key English talents who refuse to be overshadowed.
In the backline, Monye praises Thomas Ramos, calling him a "stupidly good rugby player" essential for any fantasy rugby team. Tommy Freeman also makes the cut over France's legendary try-scorer, Damian Penaud, with Monye asserting that Freeman would be just as prolific in the French setup. Centre Nicolas Depoortère, who Monye likens to the great Yannick Jauzion, is celebrated for his effortless skill and formidable presence during this year's Six Nations.
The midfield sees Seb Atkinson, noted for his leadership and professionalism. On the wing, Louis Bielle-Biarrey earns his spot with the best strike rate among tier one wingers. Fly-half Matthieu Jalibert, hailed as one of the planet's top players, especially shines with Romain Ntamack sidelined. Monye emphatically prefers Antoine Dupont at scrum-half, simply stating,
"Dupont over everyone."
Turning to the forwards, Anthony Jelonch is highlighted as a standout number eight. Ben Earl and François Cros fill the flanker slots, with Monye openly biased towards Earl. The engine room features the colossal Mickaël Guillard and English legend Maro Itoje, who Monye declares will be remembered as one of rugby's true greats. The front row is just as impressive with Dorian Aldegheri praised for his robust play in the scrum, Julien Marchand dominating the set-piece, and Ellis Genge, whom Monye describes as,
"one of the best on the planet when he's at his best."
This selection not only showcases the individual brilliance of these players but also highlights the intense rivalry and respect between English and French rugby, setting the stage for an epic clash on Super Saturday. With such talent on display, the match promises to be a thrilling encounter.
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When former England winger Ugo Monye sat down with Planet Rugby last week, he took on the challenge of selecting a combined England and France XV. The team, featuring a mix of ten French and five English players, reflects the current dominance and flair found in French rugby, alongside key English talents who refuse to be overshadowed.
In the backline, Monye praises Thomas Ramos, calling him a "stupidly good rugby player" essential for any fantasy rugby team. Tommy Freeman also makes the cut over France's legendary try-scorer, Damian Penaud, with Monye asserting that Freeman would be just as prolific in the French setup. Centre Nicolas Depoortère, who Monye likens to the great Yannick Jauzion, is celebrated for his effortless skill and formidable presence during this year's Six Nations.
The midfield sees Seb Atkinson, noted for his leadership and professionalism. On the wing, Louis Bielle-Biarrey earns his spot with the best strike rate among tier one wingers. Fly-half Matthieu Jalibert, hailed as one of the planet's top players, especially shines with Romain Ntamack sidelined. Monye emphatically prefers Antoine Dupont at scrum-half, simply stating,
"Dupont over everyone."
Turning to the forwards, Anthony Jelonch is highlighted as a standout number eight. Ben Earl and François Cros fill the flanker slots, with Monye openly biased towards Earl. The engine room features the colossal Mickaël Guillard and English legend Maro Itoje, who Monye declares will be remembered as one of rugby's true greats. The front row is just as impressive with Dorian Aldegheri praised for his robust play in the scrum, Julien Marchand dominating the set-piece, and Ellis Genge, whom Monye describes as,
"one of the best on the planet when he's at his best."
This selection not only showcases the individual brilliance of these players but also highlights the intense rivalry and respect between English and French rugby, setting the stage for an epic clash on Super Saturday. With such talent on display, the match promises to be a thrilling encounter.