Rugby World Cup winner Steve Thompson

Thompson and Armitage, Under 18 triumph, Aviva Premiership kick-off

ON THE EVE of the Rugby World Cup we catch up with two of the key men who have touched down in New Zealand, find out about a landmark victory for England's Under 18s in Australia and prepare for the big kick-off in the Aviva Premiership

The 2003 World Cup winner Steve Thompson is at the top of his game after a hard road back into the national team while Delon Armitage is running nicely into form after a spell on the sidelines.

"It was a big goal of mine to get in the World Cup squad," Thompson told the RFU Podcast. "Going to a World Cup has got that little bit of extra edge to it and you've just got to make the most of it."

England's age group sides are thriving and the Under 18 team coached by John Fletcher have just touched down back home after beating their Australia counterparts 46-19 in Sydney.

Fletcher explains the secrets of success behind a side that has won 24 out of 27 internationals over the last four years.

The first round of Aviva Premiership games kick off this weekend and we talk to all the clubs involved, starting with Worcester Warriors captain Chris Pennell, whose side are back in the top flight and preparing to face Sale Sharks.

We also hear from Saracens skipper Steve Borthwick and Leicester Tigers boss Richard Cockerill.

For the full interviews, check out today's RFU Podcast. Here you can listen to the weekly podcast or subscribe to itunes and have it delivered straight to your inbox each week.

The RFU Podcast takes you inside English rugby from the grassroots to the elite.