Last updated 10:20, Friday, 07 March 2008

YOUNG Cumbrian star Robert Miller is to be given his first start by England U20 tonight.

The former Aspatria and Keswick School fly-half has been brought in for the match against Scotland in the Six Nations clash at Falkirk.

Coach Mark Mapletoft said: “Rob deserves his chance. He’s impressed us all with his professionalism and the way he conducts himself.

“He’s improved enormously over the last year and developed other aspects to his game to go with his excellent kicking and distribution.

“He now interests defenders more and he’s worked hard at his own defence in an important channel that sides will always try and attack.

“He’s had a lot of game time at Tynedale, who he’s helped win promotion this season, he’s been mentored by good coaches, and he has some great role models at Newcastle in Jonny Wilkinson and Toby Flood.”

Miller, 18, has been on the bench for the last two England games. He had the last three minutes against Italy and then against France came on in the 79th minute and immediately kicked a penalty.