England winger Delon Armitage has said that he can’t wait to play in England’s World Cup opener against Argentina on Saturday.

The London Irish player, who has 19 caps to his name, admitted that he did not expect to start but was delighted to be given the opportunity.

“It shows the hard work has paid off. Just getting in the 45 was quite a big deal and to be part of the final squad was massive,” he told Sky Sports News.

“I never thought I was going to start. I was hoping to be named on the bench and to be told I am starting is massive and I can’t wait to play now.

“I was hoping the game was going to be tomorrow so I won’t get injured. I can’t wait to play. I’m trying to see this as a massive Test match against Argentina and not a World Cup match.”

Armitage replaces Mark Cueto who has failed to recover from a back problem.