England legend Danny Care feels it is “frightening” to consider just how good the national team can become.
Care called time on his glittering international career shortly after winning his 100th cap for his country in their breathtaking 23-22 victory over Ireland at Twickenham in the Six Nations last month.
The 37-year-old played in all five of England’s Six Nations fixtures and famously helped them win the Six Nations Grand Slam in 2016, as well as titles in 2011 and 2017.
But despite missing out on honours this time around, the Harlequins scrum-half believes the future is bright for English rugby, especially with so many exciting young stars ready to shine on the world stage.
“This England team has got the potential to be one of the very best in the world,” Care told SportsBoom.com.
“To break into that top two in the world, I think the team’s in a good spot. You saw a few new players coming through at the World Cup and definitely at the Six Nations, there’s some lads who are playing really well for their clubs are now getting chances to wear the shirt.
“There’s a few of the Northampton Saints lads who have been given a chance, the team is frightening and how good these young, talented kids are. They’re going to take the team forward – and I’m going to be a big fan watching it.”
Care, who has a record 370 appearances for his club side, made his international debut for England in June 2008 against New Zealand and quickly established himself as a regular in the national side.
But he revealed his international retirement came after a lot of reflection and a desire to spend more time with his family.
“I’ve not really had time to digest finishing my international career because I’ve gone straight into playing for my club and we’ve had a fair few big games in the last few weeks,” reflected Care.
“I think at the end of the season I will take a bit of time away and reflect on my career then.
“But it’s the nature of the beast in rugby, if you start to think about things you’re going to fall over at one point. Hopefully I’ll get some time to reflect with the family this summer.”
When Care does look back he will undoubtedly look back with pride on reaching his century, in a match where he provided the pass for Quins teammate Marcus Smith to slot the winning drop goal in overtime and end Ireland’s 11-match winning run in the tournament.
Though England still finished a somewhat disappointing third he could still feel his career had ended on a high with that win followed up by an impressive showing, albeit in defeat, against France in Lille.
“The Ireland victory was especially pleasing. To beat them and to do it on my 100th cap, that was a very special moment me and the family will never forget.
“It really showed for me what this team is all about, they showed that they can go toe-to-toe with the very best in the world.
“That was one of [head coach] Steve [Borthwick’s] big goals, to try to beat both Ireland and France, and prove to people that we should be in that top four in the world.”
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