Cross-code legend Jason Robinson believes St Helens youngster Kyle Eastmond could be a better player than he was.

The 20-year-old's rapid rise to prominence continued on Thursday as he was named at scrum-half in England's side for their Gillette Four Nations clash against New Zealand on Saturday. His pace and running style have brought many comparisons with a young Robinson, but the former Wigan and Great Britain star feels Eastmond is even more gifted.

"Kyle is a very talented young lad," said 35-year-old Robinson, who went on to win the rugby union World Cup with England after a glittering league career. "I've spoken to Kyle. He's been likened to myself but in many ways I wasn't as talented as him at his age, with his ball-handling skills and his kicking. He can certainly score a try as well - he is a very exciting young player."