England’s rugby backline is in crisis mode once again, but a new star is emerging—one who’s already drawing comparisons to the legendary Jason Robinson. And this is the part most people miss: while injuries are piling up, the team’s resilience and fresh talent are turning this into an opportunity rather than a setback. Here’s the full story.
Just days before their clash with Fiji, England’s plans have been thrown into disarray. Wing Tom Roebuck and full-back Freddie Steward, both key players, are major doubts due to injuries. Roebuck suffered ankle damage during training, while Steward is sidelined with a hand issue. This has forced coach Steve Borthwick to delay announcing the team lineup, leaving fans and analysts alike on the edge of their seats. But here’s where it gets interesting: if these players are ruled out, Marcus Smith is expected to step into the full-back role, and Henry Arundell could make his first Test appearance since the 2023 World Cup bronze final. Talk about turning lemons into lemonade!
But here’s where it gets controversial: the real buzz is around Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, the Exeter flyer who’s being hailed as the next Jason Robinson. At just 22, Feyi-Waboso’s explosive runs and raw power have drawn comparisons to Robinson, a cross-code legend known for his electric footwork and searing acceleration. Kevin Sinfield, a former Leeds and Great Britain playmaker, went as far as to say, ‘Manny reminds me a lot of Jason Robinson… I don’t think I’ve come across anybody as powerful or explosive over the first couple of meters as Manny.’ Bold words, right? But is it too early to crown Feyi-Waboso as Robinson’s successor? Let’s dive deeper.
Robinson, nicknamed ‘Billy Whizz,’ earned 51 England caps between 2001 and 2007, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. Sinfield highlights Robinson’s ability to pull through tackles and his hip strength as traits Feyi-Waboso mirrors. ‘They just beat people, and they don’t just do it one way—they can do it in a variety of different ways,’ Sinfield added. Feyi-Waboso himself is humbled by the comparison, stating, ‘I’d love to be half the player he was with his pace and power.’ But he’s not resting on laurels—he’s determined to hunt for the ball against Fiji and make a bigger impact.
And this is the part most people miss: while Feyi-Waboso’s potential is undeniable, his limited involvement in England’s recent 25-7 victory over Australia raises questions. How will he fare when given more opportunities? Can he truly live up to the Robinson comparison? These are the questions fans and critics alike are debating. One thing’s for sure: if England can get the ball into his hands more often, as Sinfield suggests, the try-scoring potential is massive.
As England prepares for their second of four Tests at Twickenham this month, with New Zealand and Argentina looming, all eyes will be on Feyi-Waboso. Will he rise to the occasion, or will the pressure prove too much? Only time will tell. But one thing’s certain: this young talent is one to watch.
Controversy & Comment Hooks: Do you think Feyi-Waboso can truly live up to the Jason Robinson comparison? Or is it too early to crown him as the next big thing? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your thoughts!
