Statement: Key England duo will miss the start of Autumn Nations Series

Steve Borthwick is set to announce his 36-man squad on Wednesday for England's Autumn internationals.

Phil Dowson, the Northampton Saints head coach, has revealed that Mitchell’s recovery is “improving very slowly.” The 26-year-old scrum-half has yet to play a game this season, casting uncertainty over his return to action.

“He had an injection, and we’re waiting to see how effective it’s been,” Dowson explained. “It’s frustrating, and while there are many questions, we don’t have a clear timeline yet. A conservative approach is being taken, avoiding anything more invasive.”

Mitchell’s absence is becoming a growing concern for England as their autumn fixtures inch closer. Dowson added, “He’s improving, but it’s slow. We’re trying to accelerate the process without risking his long-term health. We want to ensure he’s not stressed, and while he’s frustrated, we need to do what’s right for him.”

Adding to England’s woes, Exeter’s veteran centre Henry Slade is also in doubt. Recovering from shoulder surgery, Slade is regarded as “50-50” to be fit for the All Blacks clash. After being overlooked for the World Cup, the 31-year-old became a pivotal figure in England’s Six Nations campaign and their end-of-season tour.

His absence would leave a significant gap in England’s midfield, just weeks away from the November opener at Twickenham.

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.