Former England wing Ugo Monye has credited the strength in depth developed during last summer's British and Irish Lions tour as the foundation for England's current 11-match winning streak. Steve Borthwick's side begin their Six Nations campaign against Wales on the back of an impressive run that included victories in Argentina and the USA while 15 senior players were away with the Lions.
Speaking ahead of the opener, Monye highlighted how the absence of key players allowed Borthwick to blood 10 debutants across three Tests. The likes of Guy Pepper, Max Ojomoh and Luke Northmore impressed as England beat Argentina twice and the USA, building what Monye calls 'the belief and quality' that carried into autumn wins over Australia, Fiji, New Zealand and Argentina.
'I don't think it's a coincidence that this run has come around that Lions tour last summer,' said Monye, who earned 14 caps between 2008 and 2012. 'With 15 players on that tour, it allowed Steve to expose so many different players to international rugby. The strength in depth and quality we now have was built in Argentina last summer.'
England now aim to end a five-year wait for a Six Nations title, with Monye relishing the prospect of a potential Grand Slam decider against France in Paris. 'France are the champions but without getting too carried away, I would love to see a showdown in Paris,' he added. 'France against England with everything on the line – it would be amazing.'
