England centre Joe Marchant is gearing up for a comeback on the international stage by securing a move to Premiership champions Saracens from French side Stade Francais.
The 27-year-old played a crucial role for Steve Borthwick’s national team during last year’s World Cup, contributing to their third-place finish.
Marchant featured in six starting games out of seven and made a substitute appearance in the remaining match.
Despite having committed to joining the Top 14 and Stade Francais before the tournament, an agreement was in place that would render him unavailable for Test selection during his tenure with the Parisian club.
As reported by the Mail Online, Marchant’s stint in the French capital is expected to be a brief one, with Saracens, the Premiership titleholders, on the verge of bringing him back to his home country.
Stade Francais currently holds the second position in the Top 14, trailing behind Racing 92. However, the allure of resuming international rugby is believed to be a significant factor influencing Marchant’s decision.
“Drop Genge, Steward” – Brian Moore picks his England XV for 2024 Six Nations opener
In a bold move reminiscent of his illustrious playing days, iconic hooker Brian Moore has unveiled his handpicked England XV for Steve Borthwick’s squad in the upcoming 2024 Six Nations opener against Italy.
BACK-THREE:
15. George Furbank
14. Tommy Freeman
11. Immanuel Feyi-Waboso
Moore wrote in The Telegraph: “George Furbank would probably edge this pick strictly on club form and this game would be ideal to see if the Northampton Saints full-back can make the decisive step into a starting role after his first series of England starts were inconclusive.”
“I would go straight for Exeter’s Immanuel Feyi-Waboso. It would be his first cap, but opening against Italy is the least pressured of Six Nations debuts and, cynically, it would secure his allegiance for the forthcoming years.
“You can never choose a completely risk-free debut, but you will never have an understanding of any player’s potential unless you give them a chance.”
CENTRES:
13. Henry Slade
12. Fraser Dingwall
Moore wrote in The Telegraph: |As Oscar Beard is also out through injury that leaves Fraser Dingwall, replacement call-up Max Ojomah or Daly. If Borthwick goes for the latter, it is the safe option but, given this is Italy, he should give Dingwall a start and just see where it goes.”
