Sam Tomkins says he and a number of players have been in regular contact with England head coach Shaun Wane over the last few months.
Wane was appointed England boss in February but restrictions have limited him to online gatherings of the squad in preparation for the 2021 World Cup.
Speaking at a media event to mark one year until the home tournament, Tomkins explained how his former Wigan coach was improvising under the current circumstances.
“In the last few months, we have had a lot of online meetings with Shaun,” he said. “He has laid out how he wants the England team to look, to play and to feel.
“To be honest, a lot of that, I already knew. Shaun is a very simple coach who knows exactly what he wants and how he wants it done.
“I have been a part of his system since I was 15 years old so it is nothing new to me.
“But it is new for a lot of other people so I think it was important Shaun got the chance through difficult times to use this platform to speak to his players and to let them know how it is going to be.”
Although Wane has yet to take charge of an England game, there are big expectations that he can lead the nation to World Cup glory on home soil.
They will face tough opposition though from usual suspects Australia and New Zealand, as well as new international superpower Tonga.
Commenting on England’s biggest challengers, Tomkins added: “I do not watch a lot of the NRL if I am honest but the last few weeks, as it has got towards the final, I have watched a few of the games and there has been some unbelievable talent there.
“The Australian team, looking at the quality in that young Penrith Panthers side, there will be a fair few of those putting their hands up to play next year.
“Tonga and Samoa have their own identity too and people are really proud to play for them.
“I have spent a lot of time in New Zealand and Australia, spending time with people who are very proud of where they come from and so they should be.
“It is great that it is now being shown on the field rather than be seen as a stepping stone to another national side.”
The opening game of the 2021 Rugby League World Cup takes place one year from today when England face Samoa at St James’ Park in Newcastle.
You can now apply for tickets for this match and all games at next year’s tournament by clicking here.
