Smith relies on youth

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Smith has rung the changes for the mid-season international following his side's abject displays in Australia and has placed the emphasis on youth. France are pinning their hopes on Bobbie Goulding, who takes charge of the national team for the first time.

Adrian Morley, one of seven England World Cup survivors and the elder statesman of the team following the retirement of Keith Senior, is expecting a tough test from the French. "I know Bobbie very well, I played with him, and I know what passion he used to bring to the team," said Morley.

He added: "They're going to be fired up. They had a disappointing World Cup so they will want to put in a big performance. I'm sure it's going to be tough, especially early on.

"We want to put the World Cup behind us as well. It was hugely disappointing to say the least.

"It's a fresh year and all the boys are desperate to get out there and restore a bit of pride. We're looking for a good performance."

Smith is fielding a new-look back division with an average age of 23 and will be relying on Morley and captain Jamie Peacock, the two thirty-somethings in his squad, to provide a steadying influence.

"I've picked some players with experience to lead us and look after our young blokes," he said.

"Whether they will be starting or coming on, they will certainly be a big part of it. They are leading us off the field as well. They've done a great job this week."