Chase and Yeaman earn England chance

Man of Steel Chase is one of three debutants in Steve McNamara’s squad alongside Australia-based Brisbane Broncos centre Jack Reed - who was born near Keighley - and Wests Tigers loose forward Chris Heighington.

The coach has picked Chase at scrum-half where he will partner Leeds Rhinos captain Kevin Sinfield in a strong half-back combination while Yeaman is recalled for the first time since playing for Great Britain against New Zealand in 2007.

“The players have trained really well all week and we are looking forward to taking on France in Avignon as we continue our preparations ahead of the Gillette Four Nations,” said McNamara.

“The make-up of the side looks very exciting, with the right blend of youth and experience.

“There is a great opportunity for the players to really push on and stake a claim for a start against Wales the following week.

“I have also been pleased with the attitude of the players that haven’t made the side this week. They are working hard in training and will come into contention as the Four Nations gets underway.”

ENGLAND: S Tomkins; Hall, Reed, Yeaman, Briscoe; Sinfield, Chase; Peacock, Roby, Graham, Westwood, Ellis, Heighington. Substitutes: Widdop, Morley, Jones-Buchanan, Wilkin.