Rob Burrow: 'Sam Burgess will succeed in rugby union'

Leeds Rhinos player Rob Burrow has insisted that new Bath signing Sam Burgess will make a success of himself following his switch from rugby league to union.

Burgess said that his knowledge of union positions is limited, but was confident that Burgess has the talent and the athleticism to play anywhere.

"I'm not too familiar with positions in rugby union if I'm honest but all I can speak about is how good an athlete Sam is," Burrow told Sky Sports News.

"I just think he'll be great wherever he plays, whether he's tackling, he's taking the ball in - and he's got a good passing game as well. So there's a reason why another code want him. I think he'll do fantastically well and I think he'll pick it up easily.

"A whilst it's a massive, massive loss to rugby league without doubt you can't blame him for jumping at the opportunity really."

England backs coach Andy Farrell has challenged Burgess to prove himself quickly in order to make next year's World Cup.