Sir Ian McGeechan picks his six players to watch in 2021

We look at what he thinks while also adding our thoughts and their current odds to make Warren Gatland's squad to face the Springboks in 2021.

McGeechan's view: "Itoje is the likely skipper of this Lions party. He was outstandingly influential in 2017, growing with every game and really asserting himself in the biggest games. His game involvement is very high, and his discipline is now excellent."

Our thoughts: Nailed on for the tour. It will be between himself and Alun Wyn Jones for the captaincy.

McGeechan's view: "I really rate the young flanker, who has the potential to be another Tom Croft. He was Scotland's standout forward this year and his Six Nations form will be closely scrutinised. He can play across the whole back row, is a superb lineout option, a great jackaller, carries well and and has a really high game involvement."

Lions odds: 5/1

Our thoughts: Will need a huge Six Nations to get ahead of the likes Tom Curry, Sam Underhill and Justin Tipuric in the pecking order

McGeechan's view: "Billy Vunipola is the standout No 8, but I think Doris could really offer something different if a more mobile game is needed. The Irishman is a great lineout jumper and a superb athlete who operates wider out than Vunipola."

Lions odds: 2/1

Our thoughts: Could be on of the breakout stars of the Lions tour. A potential superstar.

McGeechan's view: "This is Finn's time. Whether for Scotland or for Racing, Russell's ability to find space and to use his extraordinary range of passes and kicking to manipulate defences is unrivalled."

Lions odds: 4/5

Our thoughts: Hopefully, he will be the star of the 2021 tour, although we wouldn't be shocked if Warren Gatland doesn't fancy him.

McGeechan's view: "With Manu Tuilagi constantly injured and Jamie Roberts absent stage left, the Lions desperately need a forceful ball-carrier in midfield who can take the ball up and get over the gainline early. Ollie Lawrence is a fledgling in Test terms but he's the player best suited to that role, although the excellent Rugby League-style lines run by Scotland's Sam Johnson means he can also fulfil that role too, as he showed at Twickenham two years ago."

Lions odds: 10/1

McGeechan's view: "There is no substitute for pace, but this potential bolter also glides past would-be tacklers without pausing for breath. Used properly he could wreak havoc, although he is prone to worrying defensive lapses. However, with rock solid campaigners like Anthony Watson, Jonny May and Jack Nowell available, he's a luxury Warren can afford."

Lions odds: 2/1

Our thoughts: The most exciting wide-man around, he could be a breakout star during the 2021 tour