Hull FC half-back Leon Pryce believes that the club’s hooker, Danny Houghton, should be pushing for an inclusion into Wayne Bennett’s England side for the Four Nations at the end of this year.
Pryce, a former Great Britain international himself, acknowledges that the competition for places in the hooking role is notoriously tough with some big names in contention, but says that Houghton’s performances over the past few years means he now deserves a shot at international rugby with England.
“Danny Houghton should be pushing for an England place this season, I think he’s been overlooked over the last few years but this year he should be pushing,” he said.
“I think it’s tough for him with the competition in his position with (James) Roby, (Michael) McIlorum, (Daryl) Clark but he’s definitely up there and out of those four I think he deserves his chance this year.”
Pryce also thinks two of the club’s other forwards, Liam Watts and Scott Taylor, should be in the mix too.
“I think Wattsy should have got a chance last year, Tag I’ve been really impressed with in pre-season,” he told the club’s official website.
“He’s mouthy and loud but backs it up on the field. They’re two great lads. Im hoping this year if things go well we’ll get a few more players up there for England selection.”
