Concerning update on Alex Mitchell after scrum-half stood down from rugby

Saints head coach Phil Dowson has confirmed that Mitchell is "improving very slowly," but with no game time so far this season, the 26-year-old's return to action remains uncertain.

Mitchell’s absence is a growing concern for England, with the first of their autumn fixtures just weeks away.

“He (Mitchell) had an injection, and we are waiting to see how effective that has been,” Dowson said.

“So as frustrating as it is, and there are lots of questions around it, there isn’t a definitive timeline because people are reticent to do anything more invasive.

“So basically, a conservative approach is the best approach. Unfortunately, that is one without a timeline.

“We are sort of sat on our hands a little bit, waiting to see how he is. He is improving, but he is improving very slowly, and it is how we can accelerate that process without risking anything from a long-term point of view.

“I want to make sure that he’s not stressed about it, which he doesn’t seem to be. He is a bit frustrated, but we want to make sure we do the right thing by him personally.”

While some may stay in the Premiership, others could be tempted by lucrative moves abroad. Here’s a closer look at the key players whose futures are in the balance.

Joe Marler, the charismatic Harlequins prop, has confirmed he will continue playing into the 2024/25 season but has also hinted at a retirement date on the horizon. Known for his distinctive personality both on and off the field, Marler is already carving out a post-rugby career through his hit podcast, "The Joe Marler Show."

Interestingly, his future plans don’t involve coaching, with Marler expressing a desire to pursue a media career beyond the sports world. This suggests that rugby fans may soon see him transition into new ventures as he bids farewell to professional rugby.

The electrifying Leicester Tigers winger Anthony Watson could be on the verge of a significant career move. With his contract set to expire after the 2024/25 season, Watson may join other Leicester stars like Julian Montoya and Handré Pollard in seeking new opportunities.

Despite missing the 2023 Rugby World Cup due to injury, Watson’s 55 England caps and his five British & Irish Lions Test appearances make him a hot prospect. If England head coach Steve Borthwick does not call him back into the national squad, a lucrative overseas contract may beckon for the 30-year-old.

Currently topping the Premiership try-scoring charts, Max Malins is a man in demand. The Bristol Bears flyer joined the club from Saracens on a two-year deal in 2023, and his blistering form has continued since.

While Bristol will be eager to retain their try machine, his omission from England's current setup under Borthwick could lead Malins to consider a lucrative move to France. With his contract up next summer, he might decide that a stint in the Top 14 could be the next chapter in his flourishing career.

George Ford, the Sale Sharks playmaker, has found himself at the centre of speculation. Rumours from France suggest that Toulon are keen to lure Ford to the Top 14, while reports indicate that Clermont Auvergne, Bordeaux-Bègles, and Castres have all expressed interest in the England fly-half.

However, Ford has previously rebuffed interest from French clubs, and there are whispers that he may extend his stay with Sale. Only time will tell whether he remains loyal to the North West or makes a big-money move across the Channel.

Sam Simmonds, the dynamic No. 8, could be in for a reunion with his brother, Joe, at French club Pau. With his future at Montpellier uncertain following Billy Vunipola’s arrival, the club may opt not to renew his contract.

Lyon have also entered the race for Simmonds’ signature, keen to bolster their squad with the former Premiership Player of the Season. Whether Simmonds chooses Pau or Lyon, one thing is clear—his talents will be highly sought after next summer.