Wilkinson backed to play until 40
20 Nov 2008 22:24 GMT



Jonny Wilkinson's mentor Steve Black insists the England fly-half is still four years from his peak and can defy his injuries to play until he is 40.

Black, confidant and personal trainer of Wilkinson, 29, believes he has only reached "about 60%" of his potential.

"I think Jonny is probably going to reach his best when he is 33, 34, from a playing standpoint," Black said.

"Because he has looked after himself so well, I could see him playing on until he is 38, 39, 40," he told BBC 5 Live.

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