"Expect him to kick on" - Eddie Jones backs three England youngsters to shine in 2022 - Ruck

“Expect him to kick on” – Eddie Jones backs three England youngsters to shine in 2022

Head coach Eddie Jones wants a number of impressive youngsters to step up heading into the 2022 Six Nations.

England finished in a disappointing 5th place last term, winning just two of their five games against Italy and France.

And even though the 2023 Rugby World Cup is still more than two years away, Jones says his focus has already turned towards refreshing his squad for the sport showpiece..

Below are three players the Aussie has tipped to play a key role for England heading into the 2022 Six Nations.

FUTURE ENGLAND STARS:

#1. MARCUS SMITH

  • Age: 22
  • Club: Harlequins
  • Position: Fly-half

Jones said: “He’s got all the attributes to be a very good 10 at Test level, but now it’s about whether he can develop his game, keep working hard and keep his feet on the ground.

“He showed some promising signs during the Autumn, but we expect him to kick on heading into what will be an incredibly competitive Six Nations.

“He’s got a very good attitude and great desire to keep working. If he doesn’t believe everything that’s written about him he’ll be alright.

“He’s coachable. He’s got good fundamental skills – he can catch square, pass accurately, he’s got a reasonable kicking game and his goal-kicking as we saw today is first class.”

DID YOU KNOW? He moved to the United Kingdom at the age of thirteen from Asia and subsequently received a sports scholarship to attend Brighton College

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