The competition kicks off tomorrow (Thursday 2nd December) but some of the England Sevens players, including Monye, were preparing by relaxing on the beach in Dubai this morning.

The 21 year-old was joined by the three uncapped England players; Ollie Phillips, Mathew Tait (both Newcastle Falcons) and Neil Starling (Northampton Saints), as they had some fun in the surf before facing Scotland, Uganda and France tomorrow in the pool stages of the tournament. The temperature may be up in the 30's but the players are staying cool as they attempt to win the Dubai event; something which has eluded England in previous years.

Seasoned sevens player Monye took part in the Dubai Sevens last year when England lost to South Africa in the semi-finals, but believes that the team have a real chance of going one step better this year and securing a victory in the tournament.

"We have spent more time together in our preparation this season thanks to the EPS (Elite Player Squad) system, which has helped our training and all the new boys have settled in well. Having Mathew, Ollie and Neil out here should really add something to the England side and we are really looking forward to tomorrow's competition."

The team arrived in Dubai on Monday and have been busy with training sessions and acclimatizing, but still have had some free time to enjoy the city and culture.

"This place is amazing," said Monye. "We were fortunate enough to have a look at the Burg Al Arab hotel yesterday (Dubai's seven star hotel), which was unbelievable and is one of the spectacles of the city. The people are really friendly and it's really hot. It's December and just compare this to London; it's nice to get away and this is a great place to kick-off the IRB Sevens."

As one of the more senior members of the squad, Monye believes the new caps have settled in well.

"The training has helped everyone get to know each other and they are all good lads. We are all here to help each other and do a job, so they have been fine. They haven't had to go through any nasty initiations so far but let's get on with the rugby first and see what Saturday might bring!"