Six player dubbed 'the next Manu Tuilagi' by the Telegraph - Ruck

Six player dubbed ‘the next Manu Tuilagi’ by the Telegraph

Telegraph scribe Ben Coles has made it his mission to discover who can replace Manu Tuilagi in the England team as the powerhouse continues to be hampered by injury.

They’ve analysed the possible alternatives, from an ‘admittedly shallow pool;, to add some thrust back into England’s unbalanced midfield.

#1. Mark Atkinson (Gloucester)

  • Height and weight: 6ft 6in, 16st 9lbs
  • England caps: 1

They said: “The most realistic option, given he has been in Jones’ squad both in the autumn and during the Six Nations. Atkinson is a far more subtle player than his frame may suggest, and that works in his favour.”

Mark Atkinson (Gloucester Rugby, uncapped) during England Rugby training session at The Lensbury Hotel, Teddington, London on 28 Sept 2021. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK

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