England number eight Alex Matthews says the back row is the most competitive area of the Red Roses squad, which is aiming for a double Six Nations and World Cup triumph this year.
The 31-year-old was part of the World Cup-winning squad in 2014 and has been a mainstay in the side for several years, but now faces competition from Maddie Feaunati.
Matthews missed the opening two rounds of this year’s Six Nations through suspension and Exeter Chiefs’ Feaunati deputised, winning player of the match against Italy before scoring twice in the commanding victory over Wales.
Last year’s World Rugby women’s player of the year nominee Matthews returned to the starting XV for England’s win against Ireland before being replaced by 22-year-old Feaunati in the most recent victory over Scotland.
With a home World Cup in August England’s resources in the back row are plentiful, including captain Zoe Aldcroft, Sadia Kabeya and former skipper Marlie Packer, and Matthews says it is difficult for head coach John Mitchell to accommodate them all.
“The back row is the toughest position in the squad at the moment,” said Gloucester-Hartpury’s Matthews.
“There are some world class players and not enough space in the team for all of them, but it’s the depth we need in our squad.
“Maddie is an unbelievable athlete with her footwork, power and handling.”
The Red Roses will be chasing a fourth successive Grand Slam and a seventh Six Nations title in a row when they face France at Allianz Stadium on Saturday.
A record women’s crowd of 58,498 watched England beat France on their last meeting at their Twickenham home in 2023 and Matthews says she still gets goosebumps when she recalls the day.
“I love the atmosphere at Allianz, it’s a different level,” she said.
“I remember the goosebumps from the last France game and just having that support.
“I remember times running out after an England men’s game and everyone in the crowd is gone, but to now have that [support] is so special and it’s what dreams are made of.”
