England’s Pepper eager to silence Pumas as World Cup semi-final raises the volume

Guy Pepper has played his way into England’s starting back-row equation since the series in Argentina last summer. Photograph: Ed Sykes/Getty Images

For better or worse England have chosen an interesting week to be in Argentina. Before the World Cup semi-final in Atlanta there is widespread optimism that fútbol is coming home and Steve Borthwick’s players are located right in the mixer in downtown Buenos Aires.

There is certainly a great deal more public anticipation in the air than there is for the rugby Test in Santiago del Estero on Saturday. The competitive rivalry between the two countries, however, burns brightly regardless of the shape of the ball, and English players unfamiliar with fervent Argentinian crowds are being advised to brace themselves for what is coming.