Immanuel Feyi-Waboso: Kevin Sinfield sees Jason Robinson in England wing

Sinfield’s comparison

Sinfield compared Feyi-Waboso with Robinson, whom he played against in rugby league. “He is our Jason Robinson,” Sinfield said. Feyi-Waboso has become a prolific option on the wing, but injuries have interrupted his progress with England. He had a second-minute try ruled out against Australia for a forward pass in an earlier phase.

Injury halts autumn return

Feyi-Waboso came back this summer and scored in England victories over Fiji and Argentina. He was injured in the first half against Australia, with an ankle problem ending his autumn campaign.

Sinfield said Feyi-Waboso understands his body and that England wants him back in action as soon as possible. He added that keeping players fit for major matches would be important.

Decisions and replacement

England has since approved Feyi-Waboso’s return for June’s Premiership final, three weeks after he sustained a facial fracture. Sinfield said the player’s determination to remain on the field influenced the decision to keep him on.

Sinfield said coaches cannot scan a player on the pitch and must assess what they see. He said coaches should listen to players, including Feyi-Waboso, who is studying medicine. Noah Caluori, a 20-year-old Saracens wing who scored on his England debut against Fiji in July, has been called up.

Sinfield’s charity work

Sinfield was knighted last month for services to both rugby codes and for raising money and awareness for motor neurone disease. He has raised more than £13m for charities supporting people with the disease and seeking a cure.

His latest challenge included running seven ultramarathons in seven days last month. Sinfield said the fundraising must continue because there is no cure.