England coach Brian McDermott has recalled Jake Connor to the national setup after a seven-year absence, naming the Leeds Rhinos fullback in a 38-man performance squad for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup. Connor, the reigning Man of Steel, missed out on last autumn's Ashes series under former coach Shaun Wane but now gets another chance to impress ahead of the October tournament in Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea.

McDermott included ten uncapped players in his selection, with Wakefield Trinity duo Jake Trueman and Caleb Hamlin-Uele joined by Wigan Warriors prospects Sam Walters and Zach Eckersley. The squad also features NRL talent including Canterbury Bulldogs prop Max King and Sydney Roosters centre Billy Smith, signaling a blend of domestic and overseas experience.

England reached the semi-finals at the last World Cup on home soil in 2021 before falling to Samoa. They open their 2026 campaign against Tonga on October 17, with McDermott suggesting there's still time for players to force their way into the final squad before the tournament begins. Connor's recall represents McDermott's first major selection decision since taking charge in January, prioritizing form players over reputation as England builds toward their World Cup opener.