John Bateman defends England team-mate George Williams amid club struggles
England forward John Bateman has backed half-back George Williams as one of the best players on his day despite his current club form.
Williams, 27, was one of three try-scorers that helped England to an 18-4 victory over the Combined Nations All Stars.
The half-back’s selection caught the eyes of plenty, but his performance on the day proved why Wane backed his former Wigan star.
Bateman, who also scored at the Halliwell Jones Stadium, has backed his international team-mate in Williams following a strong performance. The Wigan forward has called out those criticising the England international, calling it a ‘load of bull****’.
Warrington currently sit ninth in the Super League table, having claimed just five wins from 15 fixtures.
John Bateman defends international team-mate Williams
“It’s good to play with George,” Bateman said. “He’s had a tough year and a lot of people have been at him but – and I apologise for swearing – I think it’s a load of bull****.
“He’s one of the best players on his day. It’s hard sometimes when you’re in a team that’s not winning but George for me is the best out there, he’s one of those players I’d have by my side any day of the week.
“It (playing for England) gets your confidence up. I hope they don’t go back and win too many games but I hope he plays well. He’s my mate and a team-mate as well.”
Following the clash on Saturday, England boss Wane has also shared his belief that Warrington will ‘turn things around’ for the second half of the season.
“Warrington are a very good team and they will fix things,” said Wane.
“Just to get them (players) into a different camp with a different group of players will do them good. Without a shadow of a doubt I think Warrington will turn a corner. They’ve got too many good players.
“George (Williams) has seemed like a different person this week. There’s a lot of pressure on the players here. It is a big club that wants to do things and at the moment it is not going their way but I’m sure it will turnaround.
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