Lomu in English talks, denies backing Japan

Jonah Lomu, who is in talks with an English club to kickstart his rugby career, has denied claims that he is backing Japan's bid to host the 2011 rugby World Cup,

The legendary All Blacks wing was quoted by the South China Morning Post (SCMP) yesterday as saying: "Everyone always talks about the best things in terms of growing the game, and in this regard I think it is time for the World Cup to come to Japan and Asia."

Last night the 63-test veteran rejected any notion he was behind Japan's bid in a statement.

"I want to be clear to New Zealanders that I have not put my support behind Japan's bid, nor have I ever been asked to," he said.

"I am 100 per cent behind New Zealand. I feel a huge loyalty to this country. It's the country I live in and love."

The New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) is in a tight three-way battle with Japan and South Africa to secure the hosting rights, with the successful bid announced on November 17.

The NZRU has declined to respond to Lomu's comments but is understood to be upset with him.

Lomu 30, who had a kidney transplant last year and has not played international rugby since 2002 after being diagnosed with nephritic syndrome, said he was hoping to make a return to competitive rugby in England.

He is a close friend of former Leicester and England and Lions captain Martin Johnson and made his comeback in Johnson's testimonial match at Twickenham in June.

However, he injured his shoulder in the game and underwent an operation on the shoulder.

He has since been a waterboy for the North Harbour team in the NPC.

"My shoulder's feeling good after surgery, but I have not been able to play for North Harbour because of it," he said.

"The season in New Zealand will end soon, and I'm looking for regular rugby in the off-season. We are talking to a couple of English clubs, and that decision won't be made until I get back home," Lomu told Agence France Presse (AFP)

He wants to secure a Super 14 contract for next season, but with no domestic rugby under his belt he would require a special exemption from the New Zealand Rugby Union to qualify for selection.

- NZPA