Zach Mercer has responded to reports that he heading back to the Gallagher Premiership and is instead set to honour his current contract in France
The back-rower was reportedly offered a World Cup lifeline after an impromptu meeting with Eddie Jones, according to the Mail Online.
This led to rumours of interest from three Premiership clubs in Bristol Bears, Harlequins and Leicester Tigers.
Nevertheless, Mercer has revealed he plans on fulfilling his current contract with Montpellier.
“It’s all a load of rubbish really. There’s no truth behind it [the rumours].
“I’ve got this year and next year and an option of a plus one to stay so. I’m here in Montpellier and I’m staying. Obviously this time next year there will be a slightly different discussion.
“Like I said I really enjoying my rugby. I still have aspirations to play for England, but look at Steffon Armitage. So did he and he stayed in France, so I’m not saying that’s not an option.
“I am still young. I still have aspirations to play for England and I have been very vocal with Montpellier about that. Discussions are going to happen next year.
“I do believe this team this year can go and win a Top 14.”
EDITORS PICKS:
- Rugby 22: New Exclusive Gameplay Trailer Revealed
- TRANSFER: Zach Mercer set for Gallagher Premiership return
- Sam Underhill ruled out of Six Nations after horror injury
- Joe Marler ‘lucky’ not to see red for deliberate stamp
- A second Champions Cup game has been cancelled
- Here Are The Hardest Hitters In Rugby Union History
Five England stars you didn’t know can swap nations for 2023 Rugby World Cup
Below, we pick out five England players you didn’t know could swap nations ahead of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, either immediately or in the run-up to the tournament.
#1. Zach Mercer (England to New Zealand)
- Age: 24
- Position: Number 8
- Current number of caps: 2
- Last cap: November, 2018
- Did you know? His father is former rugby league footballer and coach Gary Mercer, who played for New Zealand and the New Zealand Māori rugby league team
