Jack Clifford nominated for Young Player of the Year

England Under20 captain Jack Clifford has been nominated for the IRB Junior Player of the Year award alongside Wales fly-half Sam Davies and New Zealand captain Ardie Savea.
The winner is set to be announced following the final of the tournament in France which will see England take on Wales in an historic all-European final.
Lead by Harlequins No.8 Clifford, England put on a sensational display in the semi-finals beating New Zealand while Welshman Davies kicked a last-gasp conversion to stun reigning champions South Africa.
Savea, the third man on the list, could follow the footstep of All Black brother Julian who won the award back in 2010.
George Ford was the last Englishman to win the award, when he collected the trophy in 2011.
Clifford said: “I’m really surprised to be nominated – but obviously delighted. I’m massively fortunate to be part of a strong team who all work hard for each other – we get on well off the pitch and I think that has reflected on our performances.
“I definitely wouldn’t have received this nomination without the help and support of the rest of the squad. The other two guys nominated have been playing very well and it’s nice to be thought of in the same bracket.”
England U20s Head Coach Nick Walshe added: “Jack has been excellent for us all season – he is highly respected by the players and all of the management. He leads from the front and has been one of our top performers this season. He’s not one to necessarily give out big speeches but he leads from the front and others want to follow him.
“He’s a fantastic player and we’re pleased with how he has gone during the Junior World Championship – to have our captain nominated for this award, alongside two guys who have also played extremely well, is very pleasing.”