England and Northampton Saints scrum-half Alex Mitchell’s participation in the upcoming autumn internationals is in jeopardy as he continues to recover from a neck injury.
Saints head coach Phil Dowson has confirmed that Mitchell is “improving very slowly,” but with no game time so far this season, the 26-year-old’s return to action remains uncertain.
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Mitchell’s absence is a growing concern for England, with the first of their autumn fixtures just weeks away.
“He (Mitchell) had an injection, and we are waiting to see how effective that has been,” Dowson said.
“So as frustrating as it is, and there are lots of questions around it, there isn’t a definitive timeline because people are reticent to do anything more invasive.
“So basically, a conservative approach is the best approach. Unfortunately, that is one without a timeline.
“We are sort of sat on our hands a little bit, waiting to see how he is. He is improving, but he is improving very slowly, and it is how we can accelerate that process without risking anything from a long-term point of view.
“I want to make sure that he’s not stressed about it, which he doesn’t seem to be. He is a bit frustrated, but we want to make sure we do the right thing by him personally.”
Joe Marler and FOUR other major England stars out of contract next summer
As rugby fans eagerly await the 2024/25 season, several high-profile England internationals are approaching the end of their contracts.
While some may stay in the Premiership, others could be tempted by lucrative moves abroad. Here’s a closer look at the key players whose futures are in the balance.
#1. Joe Marler (Harlequins)
“The Last Laugh?”
Joe Marler, the charismatic Harlequins prop, has confirmed he will continue playing into the 2024/25 season but has also hinted at a retirement date on the horizon. Known for his distinctive personality both on and off the field, Marler is already carving out a post-rugby career through his hit podcast, “The Joe Marler Show.”
Interestingly, his future plans don’t involve coaching, with Marler expressing a desire to pursue a media career beyond the sports world. This suggests that rugby fans may soon see him transition into new ventures as he bids farewell to professional rugby.
#2. Anthony Watson (Leicester Tigers)
“Flying into the Unknown”
The electrifying Leicester Tigers winger Anthony Watson could be on the verge of a significant career move. With his contract set to expire after the 2024/25 season, Watson may join other Leicester stars like Julian Montoya and Handré Pollard in seeking new opportunities.
Despite missing the 2023 Rugby World Cup due to injury, Watson’s 55 England caps and his five British & Irish Lions Test appearances make him a hot prospect. If England head coach Steve Borthwick does not call him back into the national squad, a lucrative overseas contract may beckon for the 30-year-old.
