Settled Chase eyes grand finale in Cup

The 2011 Super League Man of Steel, who controversially switched his allegiance from New Zealand two years ago, knows he will never win over all his critics but believes he has now earned his place in the England team.

Coach Steve McNamara has pinned his faith in the former Castleford Tigers star and captain Kevin Sinfield as his first-choice half-backs and Chase, who will win his 10th cap in Saturday night’s quarter-final against France in Wigan, says he is benefitting from that consistency of selection.

“You can’t chop and change your half-backs too much because they’re pretty crucial to what the team does,” said Chase.

“We’ve earned our spots. I feel like I’ve earned my spot. People will say otherwise, but it doesn’t really matter. I’m happy with the way I’m going.

“All combinations take time, but me and Kev seem to be getting better and better each week. Hopefully we can keep on improving and get to our best.”

England will be confident of getting past France, having posted 92 points against them in back-to-back internationals in 2012, but Chase is wary of Richard Agar’s men, who showed some fighting spirit in their 22-6 defeat by Samoa in Perpignan on Monday.

“I don’t think what has happened in the past couple of years will have any bearing on what goes on in this competition,” said Chase.

“The French are always physical. They are always tough opponents and you always have to be on your game to beat them. They will play with a lot of pride and passion, but I’m sure we’ll match them in that department.”