FORMER Southend centre Mike Stanley has made his international debut for Samoa and could take on England at Twickenham next weekend.

Stanley, who comes from Thurrock, qualifies for Samoa through his father.

And that led to him appearing as a second half replacement in their 24-13 defeat against Italy last weekend.

“It was amazing to get called in to the Samoa squad and it certainly wasn’t something I was expecting,” said Stanley, who left Southend last November.

“Getting your first cap is always going to be a special moment and it certainly was.

“It was just awesome to get out there against Italy and I feel very lucky to have been given that opportunity.

“Playing against England would extremely exciting for me.”

Samoa are ranked 11th in the world and take on Canada in another friendly on Friday.

However, next Saturday, they travel to Twickenham for a clash against Stuart Lancaster’s side.

And Stanley would love to be involved.

“Obviously I grew up in England so playing against England would be a massive achievement and honour for me,” said the centre.

“They have world class players right across the board so testing yourself against them will be one of the highest challenges.

“Playing at Twickenham will be surreal but at the end of the day I need to not let the occasion cloud what I'm trying to do and that is to perform for Samoa.”

Stanley left National Two South side Southend to play in New Zealand.

He initially played in Auckland before moving to Counties Manukau this season where he is coached by former All Blacks captain Tana Umaga who Stanley feels has improved his all round game.

“Tana really helped me develop my game and look at things from a different point of view,” said Stanley.

“I personally feel it’s been the best career move to date and it’s made this call up happen.

“When I first came here I didn’t think it was a realistic goal for me to have.

“But, after a year, my rugby started to develop and it became more likely at the start of this year’s club season in New Zealand.”

Stanley will now aim to stay in the squad and play a part in next season’s Rugby World Cup.

Samoa have been drawn in the same group as South Africa and Scotland.

And Stanley would love to be involved.

“The World Cup is only next year so we are all playing for spots, especially the new guys,” said Stanley.

“But I'm just trying to take in as much information as I can from the players around me and try to better my game.”