The 2018/19 Gallagher Premiership season is now well underway, with a number of English players impressing in the early rounds.
Player management will be key this season with a Rugby World Cup on the horizon.
That means a chance to impress, and with the November internationals creeping up – an opportunity for uncapped players to work their way into Eddie Jones plans for the international season.
Here are six players who have impressed so far...
1. Joe Cokanasiga (Bath Rugby)
The powerhouse had his coming out party for Bath against Harlequins, as he cannonballed his way to two tries against at the Stoop. It wasn’t just his power on show, but also his speed and footwork, as the former London Irish man tormented the Quins defence, which had no answer for him. He also showed great awareness and balance to set up Roberts for the centre’s try. A shade of Jonah Lomu about him.
2. Dan Robson (Wasps)
By far the best uncapped English scrum-half in the game today.
3. Stuart Townsend
Another potential playmaker. Questionable barnet aside, Townsend seems to thrive in the high-tempo, end-to-end game that the Chiefs play, making him potentially an ideal impact player for Jones as a possible finisher.
4. Tom Dunn
The brace of tries Dunn picked up against Harlequins grabbed the headlines, but his all-around game and high-quality lineout throwing have been equally impressive so far this season. The Premiership's in-form hooker right now.
5. Ed Slater
The Gloucester lock doesn't have on his side but he's been in great form. He brings a physicality to the gain-line, both as a carrier and a tackler, rarely going backwards in the collision. He will also always put in a tireless shift in defence.
6. Zach Mercer
Mercer scored two tries and carried with real venom all afternoon for Todd Blackadder’s side. And in a game against Harlequins that finished up being decided by the smallest of margins, it was the 21-year-old Mercer who took the plaudits. He's quickly turning into a player who'll be pushing for senior caps.