SPORTING superstar Jonny Wilkinson is tipping a South Shields youngster to follow in his footsteps to World Cup glory.
The man who kicked that legendary last-minute drop goal in rugby union's World Cup Final two years ago believes 13-year-old Matthew Mellish has what it takes to succeed.
The England fly-half spent two weeks working with the Harton Technology Colle
ge pupil and Westoe Under-13s player for a new TV show called Jonny's Hotshots.
The Newcastle Falcons star said: "Matthew is a very talented player, especially for someone his age. He is part of our academy at Newcastle.
"He is very easy to coach because he picks things up quickly, but also his natural skills are already very developed. He has an immensely powerful left foot, and he is a really good kicker of the ball.
"Instantly he was a likeable person, and I think sometimes you have to say that is more important than anything.
"He is also very down to earth. There is always a danger that when there are cameras around, people might start showing off, but not one of the hotshots was like that, especially Matthew.
"He was just keen to learn and keen to make the most of it. He was unselfish and looked out for the other guys.
"With his skills, his passing, his running and certainly his kicking, he seems set for a bright future."
Following his first taste of coaching, 26-year-old Wilkinson is not sure whether it could be a future career for him.
"It is a tough one for me because as I have found out over the past few years with injury, I don't enjoy being on the outside of the game," he said.
"I think a lot will depend on how I react to finally understanding I can't play any more. It will be difficult.
"But with regards to coaching the hotshots, that did everything to show me just how much fun and how rewarding it can be.
"I was lucky with the group of players I was given to coach. It was a humbling and rewarding experience. There was never a dull moment.
"But it is difficult for me when I'm not playing. It is a lifestyle for me."
After two years of persistent injuries, Wilkinson has been back playing for Newcastle Falcons for a few weeks now, but he has been left out of England's autumn internationals against Australia, New Zealand and Samoa.
He said: "The last two years have not been easy, but it has been a good learning experience.
"At the moment I'm still very much grateful to be playing again.
"To think it may never have been possible is horrendous.
"I want to move forward and get back on to the international stage.
"If that England call ever comes, I will always be here. Playing is what it's all about and, now I am back, I realise how lucky I am.
By NICK WHITTENnick.whitten@northeast-press.co.uk