The NRL star AJ Brimson's position change is giving Brian McDermott a selection headache as he considers his centre options for the England team. McDermott, the new England head coach, is in the early stages of his tenure and is already thinking about his World Cup squad. He has started to look at squads and has confirmed his intention to assemble a staff and have regular contact with players throughout the year. Brimson, who made his England debut at full-back in the Ashes, is currently playing centre for the Gold Coast Titans. This position change could either create a headache or provide a solution for McDermott. Brimson's versatility, which was a key reason for his selection under Shane Wane, makes him a valuable asset. However, his current position as centre for the Titans raises questions about his future role in the England team. McDermott, who has a close working relationship with Brimson due to his role as Gold Coast Titans assistant, will have a better understanding of Brimson's capabilities. This could give Brimson an edge in the selection process. The predicted England World Cup squad for 2026 includes Brimson as a centre, with Herbie Farnworth in the other centre spot. However, if Brimson plays centre, a solution needs to be found at full-back. Jack Welsby, who played full-back in the first Test, could be the man to fill the role, but his future at St Helens is uncertain. Other Super League centres, such as Ash Handley and Jake Wardle, will also stake their claims. McDermott's challenge will be to find the right balance and make the tough decisions to build a strong England team for the 2026 World Cup. In my opinion, McDermott's close relationship with Brimson and his understanding of his capabilities will be a significant advantage. However, the coach will need to carefully consider the team dynamics and make strategic decisions to ensure England's success on the world stage. The position change of AJ Brimson adds an interesting dynamic to the England team selection process. It highlights the importance of versatility and the need for coaches to be adaptable. McDermott's challenge will be to harness Brimson's potential and integrate him into the team in a way that maximizes his impact. The 2026 World Cup will be a significant test for McDermott and the England team, and the selection process will be a crucial factor in determining their success.
