KEVIN Brown admits he faces “a tough fight” to hold onto the England number six jersey at the Rugby League World Cup.

The Wolves half-back started at stand-off in England’s last game, a 30-10 mid-season Test victory over Samoa in Sydney in May, after being called up late and performed impressively, racking up three assists.

He started alongside Luke Gale, who has since been named as Super League Man of Steel, while Wigan’s George Williams and St George Illawarra pivot Gareth Widdop missed out through injury.

Both those players are fit again and feature in Wayne Bennett’s 24-man squad along with Brown and Gale.

While admitting he may need to “bide his time” to get a game, the 32-year-old believes he can help the team from off the field if necessary.

“Gaz Widdop was voted the best stand-off in the NRL, so I know it’s going to be a tough fight for me,” he said.

“We’ve got a fantastic squad, if I get to play that’s great but I’m just as happy supporting my teammates in training or on the sidelines.

“I’ve always wanted to be a good team man, you can’t be selfish.

“As much as I want to play for my country, I know there’s some fantastic players in my position.

“There’s a Man of Steel in one and a Dally M stand-off in the other! I might have to bide my time but whatever I have to do, I’ll do it.

“I’m really looking forward to getting stuck in and helping my teammates as much as I can.”

Brown and the rest of his England teammates will get the chance to impress Bennett tomorrow, Friday, when they take on Affiliated States in a warm-up match.

The game, which could see all four of Wolves’ England players feature, kicks off at 11.45am UK time at Perth’s nib Stadium.

In what has been a mixed first season at The Wire since joining from neighbours Widnes, Brown arrived in Australia having made 22 appearances in 2017.

The former Wigan and Huddersfield man has struggled with injuries and form at different times, but says he is pleased with his fitness and confidence.

“Ultimately, it was a disappointing year with the ambition and expectations we had weren’t reached,” he said.

“I’ve had a fair bit of stick over the year, but I’ve tried to keep my head down and get into a bit of form.

“At the back end of the year, I felt like I did that. I was really happy with how I was playing, especially defensively.

“I feel great, I had a few injuries and concussions but the back end of the season meant I could string a good run of games together.

“I was just beginning to find my feet and I felt fresh at the end of the season. The body is feeling good, I’ve been training hard just in case the call did come.

“I’m feeling really fit and ready to get my teeth into whatever chance I get.”