Monaghan fears England may struggle in key spots

UK-based Australian Michael Monaghan says England are unlikely to pose a big threat to Australia in the Four Nations starting next week beause they are lacking international quality in key positions. <br><br> Canberra-born Monaghan, 30, who has been playing in the European Super League with the Warrington Wolves for the past three years told NRL.com that he believed the Kiwis however would provide a genuine test for the Kangaroos. <br><br> Australia start their Four Nations campaign on Sunday week (Oct 24) against Papua New Guinea at Parramatta Stadium and will play England in Melbourne on October 31 (Sun) and New Zealand in Auckland on November 6 (Sat). The Final will be in Brisbane on November 13 (Sat). <br><br> "Australia are obviously the favourites, like they are for every tournament they enter," he said."Any time Jonathon Thurston is out and you still can’t find a spot for Scott Prince highlights the strength of your squad. <br><br> "If Australia are vulnerable I think the threat is more likely to come from New Zealand than the English. The English have a great forward pack but are lacking international quality in the key positions that decide big games, 1, 6, 7 and 9." <br><br> Monagahan said the Kiwi squad is full of players that ended the season in good form and will provide a "genuine test" for the Aussies. "The likes of Jeremy Smith, Greg Eastwood and Bronson Harrison were dominant in the second half of the year at club level and I think are ready to make their mark on the international stage," he said. <br><br> "For the Kiwis to win the tournament the key men will be (Benji) Marshall and (Thomas) Leuluai (Wigan warriors). If they can control field position and provide good fifth tackle options the Kiwis are in with a real shot." <br><br>For more information on the 2010 Four Nations go to <a href="http://www.rlfournations.com">www.rlfournations.com</a> and join us on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/fournations">Facebook</a>.