Hull FC prop Liam Watts has admitted he has set a target on making England’s next World Cup squad in 2017.
Watts was considered unfortunate by some to miss out on the England squad for this year’s Test series against New Zealand, after an impressive year in which he established himself as one of the leaders of Hull’s pack.
But, speaking to the Hull Daily Mail, Watts admitted his chance to get a call-up could have come a bit too soon, and instead admits he’s looking longer term to try and ensure he is part of the World Cup group that goes to Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea in 2017.
“Obviously all of the fans and people I know were saying I had a chance of making the England side but I knew there were a lot of good players in front of me,” Watts said.
“The aim at the start of 2015 was to play well week in week out and not have any off games. Being more consistent was one of my main goals and I think I achieved that.
“But England consideration maybe came a bit too soon for me. It was nice to get the support from the fans, but it’s not something I expected.
“I have my eye on the World Cup in 2017 and have a couple of years to build and aim to compete for a spot for the competition
in two years.
“I’m still only 25, and hopefully after a couple of strong years I will be able to give it a crack then.”
