by Anton Johan
England side rugby coach, Steve McNamara, is facing mounting criticism over his selection of Tongan international, Willie Manu for the initial 37 man squad.
The final team will represent England at the Four Nations rugby series that will take place in Australia.
Manu qualifies to play for England since moved to the country two years ago and meets all the residency requirements.
However, there has been criticism leveled at McNamara concerning the fact that Manu played for his home country's team as little as two years ago. This switch of allegiance is not seen in a positive light in rugby mad England.
The Hull FC coach, Richard Agar said this weekend that while Manu's selection is certainly controversial, the fact of the matter is that the Tongan's call up is a good idea in the grand scheme of things.
Manu recently signed a two year contract with Hull FC.
"It's a hot potato," admitted Agar. "If Steve picks him, he'll open himself up for some criticism, but if he picks him and England wins the Four Nations, he'll be judged a hero."
"What I do know is that he's a player that can win you a game so, from an ability and form perspective, I don't think there's any argument," he said.
Manu's current selection doesn't mean that it is sure that he will make the final squad, but he does stand a chance.
"He's a long way off selection but, if he wants to represent England and Steve is prepared to pick him, I think we should support him," added Agar.
"We make a lot of it but I think we need to get out the best available team for England."
