High Noon guns for glory

Newcastle centre Jamie Noon has told of a "massive" desire to pull on an England shirt at the World Cup.

The unheralded 28-year-old staked what seems to be an irresistible claim with a fine display in the 21-15 warm-up defeat by France at Twickenham.

Noon said: "I believe I am knocking on the door to be in the squad. Deep down, I believe I have got what it takes to play international rugby. I believe in my ability. My desire to be in the (World Cup) squad is massive. It is a childhood dream."

Noon has barely been talked about in World Cup terms this summer, yet England boss Brian Ashton will surely find it difficult to ignore his claims when he finalises the England squad to defend the Webb Ellis Trophy.

He might not attract the attention of more celebrated midfield colleagues like Andy Farrell, Mike Catt or Mike Tindall, but his World Cup invitation could be signed, sealed and delivered within 48 hours.

Noon said: "I love playing for England. It drives me, it is a passion of mine, and when I put on that shirt I do my best. Sometimes, I make a couple of mistakes, but I go out there and give it everything.

"Going into the game, I was actually the most relaxed I have ever been. I believe my destiny was in my own hands, and it was a matter of going out there and playing."

The power of positive thinking has been reinforced to Noon during sessions with renowned mind game experts Steve Black and Dr Steve Peters during recent months.

It is a quality every England World Cup hopeful will require during the next two days as Ashton contemplates his final combinations.

Noon added: "What will be, will be. You can only do your best. It is about going out there, working hard and putting everything you have into whatever you are trying to achieve. I am more positive now than ever before."