FORMER Marlborough College pupil Jamie Gibson has been backed for England honours by Wiltshire-based World Cup winner Lewis Moody.

Gibson, who moved from London Irish to Leicester Tigers at the start of the season, excelled in his maiden campaign at Welford Road.

The 23- year-old answered England’s call through age-group rugby and made his senior debut in a non-cap game against the Barbarians in May 2012 before touring South Africa that summer.

He proved himself versatile – filling in at open-side for the Tigers, who lost to eventual Premiership champions Northampton in the play-off semi finals.

“I have been really impressed by Jamie,” said former Leicester, Bath and England flanker Moody, who lives in Bradford on Avon.

“I have met him once and spoke to him briefly but he is a young man that goes about his business and is very enthusiastic and competitive.

“He loves to get involved in the game and make lots of tackles and I think Stuart would do very well to have a look at him.

“He is certainly worthy of a look-in.”

  • Lewis Moody is a Land Rover ambassador. Land Rover supports grassroots rugby and provides the opportunity for 7000 youngsters to take part in the Land Rover Premiership Rugby Cup.

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