Jonny Wilkinson backs George Ford to start Rugby World Cup as England's fly-half

England's most-celebrated No. 10 has made his choice

(Getty Images)

Jonny Wilkinson has backed George Ford to start the Rugby World Cup as England's first choice fly-half.

The Bath player is currently in contention with Owen Farrell for the number 10 shirt and started last Saturday's clash with Ireland, scoring five points with a conversion and a penalty.

Farrell replaced Ford on the hour mark and made an impression by scoring two penalties that helped to seal the home side's 21-13 victory.

Despite the noteworthy cameo of the Saracens player, England's most celebrated fly-half believes the jersey should stay with Ford for the opening game against Fiji at Twickenham a week on Friday.

"The great thing about it is if you play George Ford he will grow and grow and grow in that shirt over a period of time," said Wilkinson, while speaking to Talksport.

"But the same thing exactly goes for Owen Farrell. Ford's secure at the moment though I think, and they will go into the World Cup really happy with what they've got."

Wilkinson famously kicked the drop-goal that won the tournament for England against Australia in 2003.