Williams to feature in Lebanon clash as England make changes

Drew Darbyshire

George Williams will feature for England in the clash against Lebanon, despite not being in the original 17-man squad.

The Wigan Warriors star was originally the 18th man in the Three Lions squad to face the Cedars at the Sydney Football Stadium on Saturday.

England head coach Wayne Bennett have reportedly been forced to make changes to his side for the second week in a row.

It has not been confirmed yet as to who is injured but it is understood that full-back Jonny Lomax is doubtful for the game.

Williams, 22, will make his sixth appearance in an England shirt on Saturday but it will be his first in a World Cup.

He confirmed on Instagram that he would play in the game against Lebanon, with the half-back posting a picture with former Great Britain and England star Gareth Ellis, who presented the match jerseys to the players.

On Instagram, Williams posted: “Can’t wait to pull the jersey on tomorrow. What dreams are made of to play in a World cup. @englandrugbyleague #727”

With the injured player yet to be named, it is unclear what the 17-man squad will be but if it is Lomax that is injured, Gareth Widdop could move to full-back with Williams playing alongside Luke Gale in the halves.

Or if it is Gareth Widdop who is ruled out, Williams and Gale could be in the halves, with Lomax at full-back.

If either Josh Hodgson or James Roby is injured, Williams could start on the bench to come on the field at hooker.

Can Williams be the difference for England on Saturday? Let us know in the comments below.