Lock: George Kruis (Saracens)
Flanker: Maro Itoje (Saracens)
“Itoje is playing really well and finally looks comfortable in the back row. Is it me or is he looking quicker and more dynamic than last season? He has convinced me his position is blindside flanker where he is playing for Saracens rather than in the second row.”
Flanker: Michael Rhodes (Saracens)
“Rhodes is now qualified for England and going well. He will feature in the squad and with Billy Vunipola and Chris Robshaw injured and Nathan Hughes now facing a ban, Don Armand must be a strong contender to be added to the back row mix.”
