England veteran James Roby insisted he is ready to step into the gaping hole left by Josh Hodgson's absence for Friday's Rugby League World Cup final against Australia.
Roby is certain to start at hooker at Suncorp Stadium after confirmation Hodgson tore his ACL in their dramatic semi-final win over Tonga.
"I'm really gutted for him," Roby said after England arrived in Brisbane.
"You don't want to see any player get injured at any time but to get injured just before such a massive occasion for England Rugby League as well, it's real disappointing for him.
"If I get my chance then obviously I'll take it with both hands and try my best for the team."
Hodgson's injury robs coach Wayne Bennett of one of his most dangerous weapons. The Canberra Raiders star took Roby's starting role after his international debut in 2014.
However, Roby will reclaim the No.9 jumper as one of just two Englishmen, including captain Sean O'Loughlin, to have tasted victory against the Kangaroos.
Both player were part of a Great Britain side that beat Australia in the 2006 Tri-Nations final, in what was a young Cameron Smith's third Test in the green-and-gold.
Smith has now played in 55 Tests -- eight of them against Roby -- and the St Helens rake admits he's unsure whether the Kangaroos skipper can be rattled.
"I've never seen him flustered. But I suppose he is a key man for the Aussies and one that we'll have to keep a close eye on," Roby said.
"His record speaks for itself.
"He's been there, he's done that for many years and he's consistent. You know what you're getting.
"You put him on the field, he'll perform. He's a great player.
"A player I've respected a great deal and looking forward to coming up against him if I can."
The 32-year-old, who won the Man of Steel award in 2007, is also confident he can play out the entire 80 minutes if required after what was an emotional win over Tonga.
"I'm used to playing long minutes at my club at St Helens back in England," he said.
"I'm not too fazed by that."
