JAMIE GEORGE will step out of Dylan Hartley’s shadow in South Africa as he looks to take England forward.
Hartley’s understudy has been handed his big chance after the old Red Rose captain was told to stand down for the summer due to concussion problems.
Having started all three Lions Tests against the All Blacks last summer, Saracens star George knows he also has to fill the boots and gap in leadership that 93-cap Hartley leaves.
George, who has started in just two of his 25 caps, said: “When I have been given the opportunity to start for England, naturally there is more of a leadership responsibility and I have to make sure that I take that head on.
“I have to try and drive the standards within the team, because Dylan was brilliant at that and we are definitely missing that side of things. Filling those shoes will be difficult, but also something I relish.
“But I also want to make sure I put my own spin on it. It is something I love doing at Sarries and I am confident I can take the team forward and make it a real positive environment to be involved in.
“I want to make sure I put my authority down in terms of the scrum, but also make sure we enjoy ourselves so nothing becomes monotonous.
“Trying to make sure I am relatable, approachable but also setting standards that are above and beyond.”
George’s best mate Owen Farrell, a player who he has grown up with, is the man tasked with taking the captaincy off Hartley.
And the 27-year-old believes the world-class fly-half has already had a huge impact ahead of the First Test against the Springboks on Saturday.
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George said: “Owen has spoken about how excited he is at the opportunity of having a crack at South Africa and about not wasting a minute.
“We can’t dip our toe in. We have to dive in head first and make the most of the opportunities we have.
“Owen runs the team and what I have learnt with him is that the more responsibility he gets, the better he gets as a player and as a leader.
“He relishes the challenge and he is a brilliant captain. I have no doubt he will be an excellent England captain.
“I am really excited at where he can take the team and his own performances because he does get better and better.”
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