FORMER Southend loanee Jamie George has been selected in England’s squad for the forthcoming Rugby World Cup.

The 24-year-old Saracens hooker spent time at Warners Bridge during the 2008/09 season.

And Southend’s director of rugby hopes George’s spell with Southend has helped towards his international recognition.

“Hopefully Jamie’s time with us has played some small part in him going on to get into the England squad,” said Green.

“He was with us for virtually the whole season when we were in National One and what I remember most was how good his attitude was.

“That’s what really stood out about him and rugby always rewards good attitudes so it’s not really been a surprise how well he’s gone onto do.

“He must have been 18 when he first came to us and it was probably his first taste of men’s rugby.

“It was much better for him than playing kids rugby with Saracens and it’s brilliant that he’s been selected in the squad.

“He got on really well with everyone when he was here so we’re all really pleased and wish him all the best.”

George made his England debut in last Saturday’s 25-20 defeat to France but impressed Stuart Lancaster enough to be included in his 31 man squad for the World Cup.

England play one more warm up match, against Ireland at Twickenham next weekend, before starting their World Cup campaign against Fiji on Friday September 18.

George will be hoping to figure in the matches and becomes the second Southend player to have been included in a squad for the World Cup.

Fly-half Mike Stanley has been named in the Samoa squad.

And Green was also delighted by his call up.

“Mike is a real prominent figure at this club and he’s still close mates with a lot of the lads here,” said Green.

“He was still playing for us a year and a half ago so it’s a big thing for us that he’s been included in the Samoa squad.

“Our coaching staff all played in the same side as him, including myself, and he comes back here whenever he can so we will all be rooting for him at the World Cup.”