England centre Jonathan Joseph has said that he is "ready" for the challenge of representing his country in the upcoming Rugby World Cup.
The 24-year-old is expected to play a key role for the Red Rose during the tournament on home soil having notched four tries in five games during this year's Six Nations campaign.
He will play in midfield alongside Brad Barritt for the first time when England welcome Ireland to Twickenham for their final warm-up game on Saturday, with that duo considered to be Stuart Lancaster's first-choice partnership going into the tournament.
"We've just got to stay focused and not let this moment slip by. It's a great opportunity, a home World Cup, so I want to make sure I make the most of it," he is quoted as saying by PA.
"I have trained as hard as I can and prepared as well as possible, working alongside the other players and coaches, to be up to speed with everything. There's no point sitting back and resting on your laurels, you've got to keep improving.
"I've learned a lot and feel like I've developed as a player. I'm ready to take on whatever comes at me at this World Cup."
England begin their campaign against Fiji on September 18 before facing Wales, Australia and Uruguay in their remaining three group games.
Barney Corkhill
