Borthwick returns fire in row over ‘bloodbath’

Jan 28 2008 by Gareth Griffiths, South Wales Echo

ENGLAND lock Steve Borthwick has blasted back at comments from new Wales coach Warren Gatland that Saturday’s Six Nations opener at Twickenham will be a bloodbath.

And the Bath second-row vowed the English side would meet fire with fire.

“We have individuals who are prepared for a battle – prepared to represent their country in a manner which befits the honour,” said Borthwick.

“They can talk and say what they like about the game.

“We are going to work very hard on our preparation this week. From the starting XV to the seven on the bench, we will be fully determined to do England proud.”

Borthwick has linked back up with an England squad who have a few injury concerns before they name their side tomorrow.

World Cup hooker Mark Regan (neck) and centre Mike Tindall (ribs) picked up injuries over the weekend while Paul Sackey (mumps), Simon Shaw (ankle), Nick Easter (knee) and Lesley Vainikolo (knee) also require assessments.

Jonny Wilkinson though, reported no ill-effects after being the victim of a reckless high tackle by Leicester fly-half Andy Goode.

Wales also name their side tomorrow with Lions scrum-half Dwayne Peel expected to be the only absentee from Gatland’s original 28-man squad.