Anybody watch the Storm v Bulldogs game this morning on MSK? Widdop had a superb game in my eyes and in my view will be Englands long term number 1. Although i have a sneaky feeling that McNamara will give Halley a go against France after he ditched us lot.

He wouldn't drag Widdop half way round the planet for a game against France though, would he?

He isn't ready even if he did play well, shameful thing for England is there is so little choice in some positions that players that aren't ready will automatically be picked just because they are young.

=#8000FFHe's dragged Ellis & Burgess round the world to play against France.

Really can't see him picking Halley.

Hasn't Widdop decised to play for Aus?

I think that Eastmond and Tomkins demonstrated in the 4 Nations that giving youngsters a chance is no bad thing... if Widdop is good enough then he should be our number 1

I hope that Widdop does develop into a world class fullback (and chooses so play for England of course) – fullback is probably the most crucial position in test rugby these days, with the kicking game of the top players and the discipline and strength of the defence, a good kick return is vital to getting on to the front foot at the start of each set. This is something that England have been missing for a long time... both Wellens and Briscoe are good club fullbacks but they lack the pace and/or power needed for the international level

I think he said he hasn't decided yet and of course the Aussie commentators said they would take him. Australia are spoilt for chocie at fullback so Widdop would probably never play their for them anyway, Duggan and Coote lookto be the future Australia fullbacks, so i'd like to think Widdop chooses England.

Also Widdop needs to play a few more games yet. Eastmond and Tomkins at least played a few last year and in the play offs. I think Widdop has played 2. So hopefully he gets back into the storm team a few more times, he has plenty to learn, as all young players do, and can learn that under Slater.

When was the squad announced?

I wouldn't want him, he is arrogant and after watching the Wales V England game last year he turned round and said he would have been the best player on the pitch in that game (with the likes of Burgess & co playing)

Billy Slater is the most arrogant player I have seen... but I would have him in the England fullback shirt in a flash if he was eligible

1st june i think