'Jonny should have left Newcastle'
Wed, 15 Oct 2008 13:15
England legend Lawrence Dallaglio has questioned Jonny Wilkinson’s decision to stay loyal to the Newcastle Falcons instead of pursing greater glory elsewhere.
All his injuries aside, Wilkinson remains one of the finest players of his generation, and yet, his domestic trophy cabinet, remains fairly empty.
Speaking during his Obolensky Lecture on Tuesday night, Dallaglio explained how he had only remained at Wasps for 18 years because of their ability to compete at the highest level, and questioned whether Wilkinson’s fantastic loyalty may have been misplaced.
"One could say I was tremendously loyal," he said. "But really I was very selfish. I joined Wasps because they were winners. I wanted to win so I positioned myself where I thought was the best place to win. I had to be ruthless. If I ever thought Wasps were not competitive I would have left.
"I've often used Jonny Wilkinson as my example of this. I have the utmost respect for Jonny. He is truly a world-class player and a world-class person. I'm sure we all wish him the very best in his recovery from yet another bad injury.
"Jonny has been incredibly loyal to Newcastle Falcons. But has his loyalty cost him the opportunity to win medals and trophies throughout his career? It could cost him his place in the England team."
"Would Steven Gerrard be playing for West Ham? Would Dan Carter be playing for Southland? I've used Wasps to get where I wanted to go - and visa versa."
