British & Irish Lions’ Manu Tuilagi said he was delighted to be included in final Test match and he is eager to make an impact if he gets chance to come off the bench.
Tuilagi revealed that it was a ‘massive achievement’ to be named in the squad for the deciding match of the tour.
The Leicester Tigers man suffered a shoulder injury during the game against Queensland Reds on June 8 and he feared that it may bring an abrupt and premature end to his Lions campaign.
However, the England international proved his fitness when he was handed his chance in the final midweek game against Melbourne Reds.
The 22-year-old admits that he was certain his chance had gone when he heard the news of Brian O’Driscoll’s controversial omission, but coach Warren Gatland has placed faith in the Samoan-born powerhouse.
The Lions head into the game at the ANZ Stadium in Sydney knowing that a win would clinch the series and end a 16-year wait for a Test win.
Tuilagi said: “When I heard my name, I was over the moon.
“I will play my normal game. I will try to have an impact from the bench, but I won’t put any added pressure on myself.
“Making the Lions squad was an unbelievable feeling in the first place, but to be named in the Test squad is a massive achievement.”
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