In a candid and exclusive interview, England's talismanic lock, Maro Itoje, has broken his silence on the international exile of his long-time teammate and captain, Owen Farrell, labelling the situation a profound loss for the sport.
The Saracens second-row, a pivotal figure for both club and country, did not hold back in his assessment, stating that the game is poorer without Farrell's leadership and unparalleled competitive spirit on the global stage.
A New Era for England's Attack
With Farrell's playmaking presence absent, Itoje confirmed a significant tactical shift is underway within the England camp under head coach Steve Borthwick. The team is actively cultivating a new, more expansive attacking identity.
"We're trying to create a new England," Itoje revealed, highlighting a conscious move towards a less structured, more fluid style of play. This evolution aims to empower players to make instinctive decisions and exploit opportunities in real-time, a departure from the more rigid systems of the past.
Looking Ahead: The Lions and Beyond
Looking forward, Itoje's ambitions remain sky-high. Despite the recent World Cup heartbreak, his focus is firmly set on future glory, including the coveted British and Irish Lions tour to Australia in 2025.
"I want to win things," he asserted, making his intentions clear. The disappointment in France has only served to fuel his hunger for success, setting a powerful tone for the upcoming Six Nations championship and beyond.
The interview paints a picture of a team in transition—grappling with the absence of a legend while simultaneously forging a new path filled with ambition and a renewed attacking verve.
