Rugby World Cup 2015: I’ve modelled my game on Jason Robinson, says Anthony Watson

Anthony Watson today revealed that 2003 World Cup winner Jason “Billy Whizz” Robinson inspired the try-scoring footwork that has turned him into England’s most potent attacking weapon.

The Bath wing created space despite plenty of French defenders as he scored two tries in England’s 19-14 win at Twickenham and his threat was badly missed when the team lost in Paris a week later.

As he prepared to face Ireland in Saturday’s final warm-up match before this year’s tournament kicks off with England against Fiji at Twickenham on September 18, Watson said: “Growing up, I watched a lot of Jason Robinson’s matches and just seeing his footwork rubs off.

“It does take a lot of practise before it becomes instinctive and I was really happy to score those tries [against France].

“It was frustrating watching from the sidelines in Paris and I am looking to seize this opportunity against Ireland with both hands. I have watched my two tries against France but it doesn’t really mean much unless you back it up. That is what international rugby is all about — doing it week in, week out.”

Watson is back as one of five changes — along with Brad Barritt, Geoff Parling, Tom Wood and Ben Morgan — for the clash against the reigning Six Nations champions and he is determined to ensure England maintain their winning ways at Twickenham, where they play all their pool matches: against Fiji, Wales, Australia and Uruguay.

“We were massively privileged to be in the World Cup squad and have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play in a home tournament,” he said. “This kind of pressure is a privilege and if you don’t relish that opportunity then you are wasting your time.”

While Watson is nailed on for the starting No14 jersey in the World Cup, England head coach Stuart Lancaster insists that Owen Farrell and George Ford — who starts against Ireland — are involved in a real battle for the outside- half role in the tournament.

“It’s tight,” said Lancaster. “George is in the position at the moment but Owen has been training exceptionally well. He is back to his very best for me. His defence, his game management and his attacking game have been the best I’ve seen. He’s pushing hard.

“We’ve a lot of faith in George because he has been exceptional for us but this is another big game for him because Ireland have a very good kicking game and our kicking game needs to be spot on.”

Ford, who has known Farrell from schoolboy times together, admits that the Saracens No10 is pushing hard for the starting role.

“Owen is constantly going out there and trying to be a better player. He’s a great trainer and leader in the team,” said the Bath fly-half.

“He goes out there and plays consistently well and I see that as a positive. I have to raise my game. That’s a great position to be in because you always want someone pushing you.”