Farrell remains focused

Rising star brushes aside comparisons to Wilkinson

By Tony Curtis - Follow me on Twitter: @SkysportsTC.   Last Updated: February 21, 2012 11:57am

Sky Bet

England wonderkid Owen Farrell is refusing to let the growing list of plaudits go to his head.

The 20-year-old centre has impressed in England's opening two wins in this season's RBS Six Nations - with his faultless kicking display against Italy crucial to a battling win in Rome.

And despite winning just two caps Farrell, who helped inspire Saracens to the Aviva Premiership title last season, has already been compared to the legendary Jonny Wilkinson.

Farrell, son of England and Saracens coach Andy, has already proved he has the same steely determination, nerveless kicking and crunching tackling ability as the 2003 World Cup winner.

And crucially Farrell also emulates Wilkinson in remaining completely grounded and focused.

"It is nice to receive such comments but I am just happy to do my job and help the teams get the wins. That is all that I can do."
Owen Farrell Quotes of the week

Farrell told Sky Sports: "It is nice to receive such comments but I am just happy to do my job and help the teams get the wins. That is all that I can do."

Confidence

Farrell's next challenge will come against Wales at Twickenham on Saturday - with the talented centre ready for the step up in class.

"We've had two tough away games and got two good wins, so we will go into the game against Wales with a massive confidence boost," said Farrell.

"Wales have brilliant players all over, though. They can play from anywhere on the pitch and they defend really well so we know it will be hard."

Despite his impressive performances to date, Farrell is facing competition from Manu Tuilagi for a place in the England midfield - especially with the side having been criticised for lacking a cutting edge against Scotland and Italy.

Farrell, though, claims England are "heading in the right direction".

"We've working on a bit of everything in training, not just attack, as we are continually looking to improve as a squad," added Farrell.

"We have shown glimpses of what we can do in attack and I think that in the second half against Italy there were some brilliant moments."

O2 For England - O2 customers can apply to get a free pie and pint delivered to their door to enjoy as they get behind the team in this year's RBS 6 Nations www.O2ForEngland.co.uk