Vickery determined to make an impact - Sport in brief - Evening Standard
       

Vickery determined to make an impact

Phil Vickery may have lost the England captaincy but his passion for the red rose burns as fiercely as ever.

The 32-year-old tight-head prop has been recalled to the England side for Saturday's Cook Cup clash with old enemy Australia, and has vowed to hit the Wallabies scrum "with everything I've got" as England target their first big scalp under Martin Johnson.

"I've got an opportunity this weekend and I am as passionate, enthusiastic and excited about playing for England as I have ever been," he said.

"I am certainly going to go out this weekend and give it everything I've got," he added.

Vickery captained England to the 2007 World Cup final but missed the summer tour to New Zealand with a knee injury.

Steve Borthwick stood in as captain for the trip and was appointed on a permanent basis when England came into camp ahead of the autumn international series.

Vickery was naturally disappointed - but he insisted it has only served as "fuel for the fire" because all he wants is to be part of a successful England team.

"When I stand on the field and sing the national anthem, I mean it," said Vickery. "It is everything to me and to be captain of your country is a huge honour so when Johnno told me I was disappointed - but at the same time you don't hang your hat on that.

"If you get hooked up on accolades you are a pretty sad individual. I want to play for England and be involved with this team.

"I love playing rugby, I love the game, I love playing for my country. The day that candle burns out, I shall let you all know."

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