Joe Marler had a ‘great World Cup’ and ‘changed my view on him’, claims Sir Clive Woodward… as he meets up with Mail Sport’s Croqued Monsieurs in the final episode of their alternative diary

• Joe Marler played in his third World Cup for England in the recent tournament
• The prop was particularly impressive in the Red Rose’s narrow semi-final defeat
• Sir Clive Woodward was full of praise for Marler’s performances out in France
• Latest Rugby World Cup 2023 news, including fixtures, live scores and results

Former England head coach Sir Clive Woodward has heaped praise on Joe Marler and insisted the prop’s performances at the World Cup ‘changed his view’ on him.

Steve Borthwick’s side secured a creditable third place finish at the tournament in France after being written off by many in the build-up, with Marler playing in the third World Cup of his career.

The Croqued Monsieurs dropped in on Woodward in the final episode of their alternative Rugby World Cup diary.

And, as the conversation turned to Marler, Woodward outlined his new-found appreciation of the 33-year-old.

‘I have to say I thought four years ago he did a press conference which I still don’t like,’ he said. ‘But crikey, in last week’s game against South Africa he was just fantastic. 

‘I thought his selection was right and they should have absolutely left him on. He has changed my view on him over this World Cup and he has played really well. 

‘I just call it as I see it, that’s what you’ve got to do in the media and this year he’s had a great World Cup. So well done to him.’

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