World Cup winner Alex Murphy says England’s half-back spark needs reigniting.

As a former play-making scrum-half, Murphy feels England’s midfield generals must shine in their pivotal role.

Murphy would ideally liked to have seen Man of Steel Danny Brough in an England shirt calling the shots but the Huddersfield star opted instead to stay with Scotland.

England coach Steve McNamara has been pinning his faith in the half-back pairing of skipper Kevin Sinfield and Salford’s marquee signing Rangi Chase.

Murphy told M.E.N. Sport: “England are struggling a bit too much at half-back.

“‘It is not really happening in what is a key area. What a pity there are clearly issues between the coach and Danny Brough.

“These should have been sorted and Brough should have been told he was wanted and welcomed by England.

“McNamara is having to make three positional changes simply to accommodate Kevin Sinfield.

“I don’t understand it – it obviously disrupts the side.

“Kevin is a good player and he has been a great ambassador for his club and the sport.

“He is also a very fit lad and a good professional but I feel he lacks the pace to be a half-back at international level.

“We start him in the halves then he moves to hooker when James Roby comes off. That is what I mean about the lack of continuity and disruption.

“I like to see the same combination of half-backs dominating. Rangi Chase had a better game against Ireland but there is also room for improvement in him as well.

“Chase has the ability to surprise opponents but the longer the Australians are in the World Cup, the stronger they’ll become.”

Murphy, who is guest of honour at tonight’s crucial World Cup clash at Leigh between Tonga and the Cook Islands, says it will be in Sam Tomkins’ best long-term interest to show great versatility.

“Sam is a great player but if I was him, I would start giving serious consideration to also playing in other positions from time to time,” added Murphy.

“He started out as a half-back. I am sure he could play and be effective in the centre.

“I believe that Sam could do even more with ball in his hand at centre.

“He is a tough competitor but one thing is for sure – he will certainly have to hit the ground running when he joins Auckland Warriors in the NRL.

“With what has been paid for him and who he is, Sam will be in the spotlight from the word go.

“He knows he must perform. All eyes will be on him and the Aussies don’t respect reputations.

“It is tough out there and Sam can expect some very close attention.’’

Murphy also believes England’s next opponents Fiji will be formidable opponents.

“England could be in for a very hard game,” said Murphy. “We have to perform and we have to get it right.

“Fiji have some good footballers and some big lads!”