England allegiance never in doubt for Palmer

FORMER Leeds Tykes player Tom Palmer has never regretted choosing to play for England ahead of Sunday’s Six Nations opponents Scotland, even in the long years when he was struggling to establish himself at Test level.

The 31-year-old lock, born in London but a former pupil at Boroughmuir High School, played for Scotland Under-19s and Under-21s before declaring his senior international allegiance to England.

That decision made a decade ago looks a good one now, with Palmer a firm fixture in the second row as England chase their first grand slam since 2003.

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But that has not always been the case for Palmer, who played for Leeds from 1997-2006.

It is only in the last 12 months, and since the axeing of former captain Steve Borthwick, that Palmer has finally blossomed into an England regular.

There was a five-year gap between his first and second caps and, after a decade as a Test player, he has still only made 23 appearances for England.

In 2009, Palmer left Wasps for Stade Francais despondent at constantly being overlooked by England, but even in those darker days he never wished he had pursued a Test career with Scotland.

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“It was a decision I made a long time ago and I am very pleased with it. I am looking forward to the game at the weekend and playing for England,” said Palmer.

“If I had gone down the Scottish route there would have been lots of legalities because I was born in England and have English parents.

“I went to school up there. It would have been a residency issue. It might not ever have happened.

“I did not explore it and I have no regrets over that. I always had faith in my own ability, faith I would get in and establish myself and play regularly for England.

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“While at times I did have frustrations, I never wished I had made any other decision.”

England, who beat France 17-9 two weekends ago, are priced as 1-14 favourites to despatch Scotland and leave themselves one step away from the grand slam.

Not since manager Martin Johnson was captain in 2003 have England been unbeaten in their first three matches. They went on to complete the grand slam and win the World Cup.

England last night gave the clearest indication yet that Toby Flood will be fit for the Calcutta Cup showdown by releasing Charlie Hodgson to play for Sale at the weekend.

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Hodgson was among 10 players released by manager Martin Johnson, including Hendre Fourie, whose return to Leeds suggests that Leicester flanker Tom Croft will feature in the 22-man squad to face Scotland.