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'I love him' - Steve Hansen gushes over recalled Matt Todd's attitude in All Blacks camp

October 19, 2017

Hansen said Todd comes back better every time he gets re-called into the NZ side.

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has applauded Matt Todd’s efforts and attitude in the way he has handled being recalled back into the New Zealand squad.

Todd has edged out his teammate Ardie Savea for a place on the bench to take on the Wallabies this Saturday for their final Bledisloe Cup Test in Brisbane.

Hansen said Todd had got the go ahead of Savea with his physical presence on defence.

Matty has been playing particularly well particularly in that physical side of the game, defensively and over the ruck

—  All Blacks coach Steve Hansen |

"Matty has been playing particularly well particularly in that physical side of the game, defensively and over the ruck," said Hansen.

"That's probably what has got him the nod over Ardie. We've always said that there is not a lot between them and we just made a decision on what we think is right for the team."

Todd has been in and out of the All Blacks squad since his debut against France in New Plymouth in 2013.

"That's why I continuously say that when we don't pick him that he is the unluckiest player and that's why I also say I love him," said Hansen.

"He is one of my favourite players because every time we have asked him to step up to the plate he steps up to it."

The Canterbury loose forward has only played 10 Tests for the All Blacks.

"You don't get any sulkiness, you don't get any change from Matty – he just does what is right for the team. You couldn't ask for anymore from the bloke."

The All Blacks have already won the Bledisloe Cup Test series after beating the Wallabies twice already this year in Sydney and Dunedin in August.

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