How England should line up against Tonga

It was confirmed this week that England will take on Tonga at the end of this season.

But how should Shaun Wane set his side up to win this series.

Well remarkably only four of today’s 19-man squad for the meeting against France make the team we think Shaun Wane should set up.

Fullback: Jack Welsby
With Sam Tomkins retiring, this is the passing of the mantel moment as Jack Welsby replaces his idol as England’s number one.

Wingers: Dom Young and Liam Marshall
We saw just how good Sydney Roosters bound Dom Young was in the World Cup and in 2023 he has another chance to remind English fans of his quality. Meanwhile, Liam Marshall has been superb for the last few years and his prime, now might be his moment.

Centres: Harry Newman and Herbie Farnworth
Harry Newman keeps having to wait for his debut but it may finally come at the end of this year. Him and Herbie Farnworth could give England their best centres for some time.

Halfbacks: Jordan Abdull and George Williams
The two Man of Steel leaders so far, this duo would have a brilliant balance between organisation and flair. Jonny Lomax being in the twilight of his career could be replaced by Abdull as Shaun Wane looks ahead.

Props: Alex Walmsley and Luke Thompson
The old St Helens buddies, these two are the top English props of a generation and would provide England with the perfect base.

Hooker: Danny Walker
This is a position Shaun Wane can really start to look towards the next generation. Danny Walker is set to feature today against France and could be the number nine moving forward.

Second-Rowers: John Bateman and Elliot Whitehead
The England backrowers from the World Cup should remain in their roles this winter after starring in the NRL.

Loose-Forward: Victor Radley
Speaking of starring in the NRL, Victor Radley is clearly going to be a top player for England for the next half a decade and is one of the best in the NRL at present.

Substitutes: Jez Litten, Tom Burgess, Matty Lees, Morgan Knowles
In the shape of Tom Burgess, England will have impact and NRL pedigree and he could be be joined by two of Super League’s top forwards in St Helens duo Matty Lees and Morgan Knowles. Meanwhile, Jez Litten could be the ideal foil for Danny Walker.