Mike Ford: 'Sam Burgess should be in World Cup squad'

Bath Rugby coach Mike Ford has insisted that Sam Burgess has done enough to be included in England's squad for the Rugby World Cup.

The former rugby league player made his England debut in the 19-14 win over France at Twickenham last night, just over two weeks before Stuart Lancaster must name his final squad for the tournament.

Ford told BBC Sport: "He made a number of tackles, some of them very hard-hitting. I also thought he was OK with the football, he did a couple of nice passes.

"He did everything right, he even got a try-saver at an important time. I think he did enough to make the squad. Lancaster is looking for leadership off the field and a presence in midfield."

Burgess signed for Bath last season after four years with South Sydney Rabbitohs in the NRL.