George Furbank admits he did not expect his England call-up ahead of this year’s Guinness Six Nations and believes Eddie Jones is the right man to take the side forward.
The full-back made his Red Rose debut in England’s opening round defeat against France in Paris, failing to find the form he has demonstrated for Northampton Saints as his side succumbed to a 24-17 defeat.
The 23-year-old then started in his team’s hard-fought 13-6 triumph over Scotland at BT Murrayfield but did not feature in the stylish victories against Ireland and Wales at Twickenham.
And while he was surprised to receive his call-up ahead of the Championship opener, he says Jones – who extended his deal as England head coach on Thursday – provided a reassuring influence after his Test match bow in the heat of the Stade de France.
“It was a massive shock to get a call-up and play,” he told Sky Sports.
“It’s a step up from club rugby – at Saints we like to chuck the ball around and take a few calculated risks, whereas international rugby is a lot more tactical with the kicking game.
“There is the mental side as well and that ability to shut out outside noise and be able to focus on the game.
“He [Jones] was really good to me after that game.
“He spoke to me about how he thinks I can play better in the future and to concentrate on doing the basics really well, because there will be games where you go on a run and everyone will be singing your praises so just keep doing the basics well and it will stand you in good stead.”
Jones recently signed a new deal to extend his spell as England boss until after the 2023 World Cup, with his side sitting atop the Guinness Six Nations table – on points difference – when the coronavirus outbreak decimated the sporting calendar.
The England chief led his team to a memorable Grand Slam title at the first attempt in 2016 before they defended their crown the following year, part of a spell where they achieved a record-equalling tally of 18 wins in a row.
And as the Jones era continues at Twickenham, Furbank believes the Australian has what it takes to build a lasting legacy for the Red Rose.
“It’s a nice decision to hear for all the boys and rugby in general,” he added.
“He’s done a really good job and it’s exciting times – we can now build for the next few years and then the World Cup.”
