Marcus Smith's contract talks with two French clubs revealed

that they also had a possibility of signing the playmaker.

'Smith was strongly considering a move across the Channel at one stage.'

They continued: 'In the end, Smith was persuaded by close advisors to stay at the Stoop where he has flourished in 2021 and since been adopted as the darling of Twickenham'

Had the 22-year-old made the shock switch across the channel, he would have been unavailable for England selection due to the current rules implemented by the RFU

RUCK understands that Toulon, who signed Maori All Blacks standoff Ihaia West two days ago, offered the Harlequins playmaker a bumper deal in the region of £600,000.

Lyon president Yann Roubert also revealed to The Telegraph

“One French agent told us that he was available and we had been following him so we knew he was a good player. What he did this autumn proved us right; unfortunately for us, fortunately for him. 

“We had some initial talks. We understood before we made an offer or proposed a contract that he had to choose if he was ready to leave England or not. That was the first call he had to make because we did not want to be used for an auction.

"It has been so quick for him this year, I think he made the right choice. When you see the end of the story as you see what he has done with the national team then it was the right call to stay there.”

Woodward wrote: "Steward is a fearless giant who commands the airway but also has the football skills the modern day full back requires."

Woodward wote: "Slade is becoming the midfield fulcrum and boss for England"

Woodward wrote: "Smith is the real deal, a major talent and goal kicker of the first rank with nerves of steel. Quirke looks a real handful."

Woodward wrote: "Courtney Lawes had a fine series and led by example when asked to captain the side, Maro Itoje roamed to good effect as usual and the back row were tackling machines."