‘Five young players to star for England' from 2009 supplied mixed results

Although a number of them have shined in the years that followed, others have failed to establish themselves or even retired.

What they said: The hard-hitting 20-year-old lock forward has already been tipped as a future England international, by none other than Martin Johnson. Made a telling contribution to Northampton’s excellent Heineken Cup win against Munster at Franklin’s Gardens on Saturday.

Now? 80 England caps and 2 Lions caps from their tour of New Zealand proved the Guardian was on the money again here.

What they said: Currently recovering from a shoulder injury after impressive start to season, the burly 21- year-old centre could be back in the England reckoning for the Six Nations. He made his first start for them in the non-cap game against the Barbarians last summer.

Now? The ex-Harlequins and England centre was forced to retire from rugby in 2015 at the age of 27 due to injury. Turner-Hall spent his entire playing career with Quins, clocking up 181 appearances for the club since joining their academy in 2005.

What they said: A fly-half who is currently playing his rugby at full-back, the 21 year-old has delivered a number of mature performances for the league leaders. Starred last season for England Under-20s as they completed their grand slam. No relation to Andy, the England stand-off.

Now? Despite a stellar career with Saracens, winning multiple league title and European honours, the fullback has never been able to establish himself as an England regular with Mike Brown keeping him out until he was dropped himself.

What they said: The son of former Leicester and England scrum-half Nick, the 20 year-old, who plays in the same position as his father, has impressed in a number of cameos for the Tigers. Nominated for Premiership Young Player of the Year last season.

Now: The scrum-half, who is still with Tigers, has the potential to get a century of caps for England, having racked up 99 caps since making his debut in 2010.

What they said: “The 21-year-old centre has made just one start for the club this season, but what an impact he made, being named man of the match in the thrilling 32-32 Heineken Cup draw against the Ospreys and their stellar backline at Welford Road on Sunday.”

Now? The former Leicester starlet was for a while one of the most popular England players but now, aged 32 and playing for Gloucester, he struggles to even get his name linked to selection. Set to be a free agent this summer.