Uncapped back-row forward Henry Pollock has a “wonderful future ahead of him”, says England skills coach Kevin Sinfield.
The 20-year-old has enjoyed a stellar season with Northampton Saints and was called up to the England training camp before their Calcutta Cup meeting with Scotland.
Pollock was influential as England Under-20s won the World Cup last summer and Sinfield says the flanker has been impressive in training since stepping up to the senior set-up.
“Pollock has been outstanding,” Sinfield told BBC Sport at England’s training camp in York.
“He’s been great and has massively impressed not just the coaches, but the players as well.
“He’s got a wonderful future ahead of him.”
England remain in contention to win the Six Nations after dramatic one-point home wins over both France and Scotland.
There are no games in the Six Nations this weekend and Steve Borthwick’s side return to Allianz Stadium on Sunday, 9 March to host Italy in their penultimate match of this year’s tournament, with Sinfield saying Pollock is in contention to make his Test debut.
“Henry’s in a squad of 29 here that are fit and available, with four or five that are here rehabbing,” said Sinfield.
“He’s in with a shout [of making the squad] but they all are.”
However, Leicester lock George Martin is out of contention for England’s final two fixtures with a knee injury.
The 23-year-old started alongside captain Maro Itoje in the second row against Ireland and France, but was replaced in the squad by Ted Hill for the win over Scotland.
“He’s actually got two injuries – the knee, which has been a niggle for some time, and the shoulder as well,” said Sinfield.
“It will be the shoulder that will keep him out.
“We’re very hopeful it won’t be long after the Six Nations, but there’s still some medics investigating further.”
