England should call on former stars says Garry Schofield

Former Great Britain skipper Garry Schofield believes England are missing a trick by not seeking more guidance from stars of yesteryear.

Schofield is convinced the current players would benefit greatly from their experience and knowledge as they look to close the gap on the world stage.

The 46-year-old is adamant they shouldn’t be overlooked if they want to beat the Australians, having done himself and is now urging coach Steve McNamara to call on their help ahead of the Four Nations and next year’s World Cup.

You can hear his typically forthright comments in the latest PROBIZ Tryline, as he also chats about finally getting his hands on the Golden Boot award he was denied 21 years ago.

Schofield should have received the honour back in 1990 for his efforts in GB’s backs-against-the-wall Test-series win in New Zealand and a remarkable display in the 19-12 win over Australia at Wembley, but he didn’t due to a dispute with the sponsor.

Rugby League World editor John Drake was keen to right that wrong and got the chance to do so at last week when he presented him with the prize at the Albert Goldthorpe Awards.

Mike Stephenson was another recognised at the event with a lifetime achievement accolade, handed over to him by previous winner and fellow commentator Ray French. Both men spoke to PROBIZ Tryline presenter Rob O’Neill about the play-off series and the need for a thick skin in their line of work when fans are quick to criticise.

Another guest in this edition of the weekly podcast is Robbie Hunter-Paul, who celebrated a career achievement award ahead of his impending retirement.

As ever the programme contains the views of Independent’s Dave Hadfield, who assesses the latest action on the field as well as discussing some of the talking points off it.

Video: Garry Schofield at the ceremony at the Galpharm Stadium...

To listen to the latest edition of PROBIZ Tryline, click here .