Pocock still a factor in Wallabies’ World Cup plans
Despite second knee surgery, Australia coach is confident flanker will recover in time for 2015
Australia coach Ewen McKenzie has backed David Pocock to return to top-flight rugby and push for a World Cup berth next year after the flanker underwent a second knee reconstruction in just over a year.
The 25-year-old openside had surgery on his left knee late on Wednesday and faces another year on the sidelines, having only just returned to his provincial ACT Brumbies side after missing most of last season.
"To win a World Cup you need quality, depth and experience at each position, and David has played 46 tests, so if he is healthy and in form it will only benefit the Wallabies," News Limited media quoted McKenzie as saying yesterday. "I have no doubts he'll continue to be extremely diligent when he begins his rehab and we're all looking forward to seeing him make a successful comeback.
"I don't think there would be anyone within Australian rugby that doesn't sympathise with David.
"Anyone who knows him would understand just how hard he worked during his rehab and, personally, I'm disappointed for him that he won't get to reap the benefits of that for the Brumbies and Wallabies this year.
"However, I also know that David is a consummate professional and he won't let this setback keep him down for too long."