Brad Barritt has described England's Rugby World Cup squad as a 'statement of intent' by coach Stuart Lancaster.

Centre pairing Sam Burgess and Henry Slade were included in the 31-man party on Thursday despite sharing just two international caps between them.

Luther Burrell and Nick Easter were the high-profile names omitted from the squad ahead of the tournament.

"[Stuart Lancaster's] definitely made a statement," Barritt told Sky Sports News. "It's not just a case of the games, it's the work day in and day out and they've obviously impressed and pushed for their inclusion.

"Credit must go to [Burgess and Slade]. For the guys that have missed out, it's really tough for them. The centre group is a really competitive place – there have been six guys who have put up their hand and who would all deserve their place."

England play their final Rugby World Cup warm-up game on September 5 when they face Ireland at Twickenham Stadium.